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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

RNA-Associated Chromatin DNA-DNA Interaction Method
Published on: April 30, 2026
Structure and function of ribosomal RNA gene chromatin
Joanna L Birch1, Joost C B M Zomerdijk
1Wellcome Trust Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.
Abstract:
Transcription of the major ribosomal RNAs by Pol I (RNA polymerase I) is a key determinant of ribosome biogenesis, driving cell growth and proliferation in eukaryotes. Hundreds of copies of rRNA genes are present in each cell, and there is evidence that the cellular control of Pol I transcription involves adjustments to the number of rRNA genes actively engaged in transcription, as well as to the rate of transcription from each active gene. Chromatin structure is inextricably linked to rRNA gene activity, and the present review highlights recent advances in this area.
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