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Updated: Apr 3, 2026

Chromatin Isolation by RNA Purification ChIRP
Published on: March 25, 2012
Control of Chromatin Structure by Long Noncoding RNA
Gudrun Böhmdorfer1, Andrzej T Wierzbicki1
1University of Michigan, Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
Abstract:
Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is a pivotal factor regulating various aspects of genome activity. Genome regulation via DNA methylation and post-translational histone modifications is a well-documented function of lncRNA in plants, fungi, and animals. Here, we summarize evidence showing that lncRNA also controls chromatin structure, including nucleosome positioning and chromosome looping. We focus on data from plant experimental systems, discussed in the context of other eukaryotes. We explain the mechanisms of lncRNA-controlled chromatin remodeling and the implications of the functional interplay between noncoding transcription and several different chromatin remodelers. We propose that the unique properties of RNA make it suitable for controlling chromatin modifications and structure.
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