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How does chromatin package DNA within nucleus and regulate gene expression?
Ahmed E Fazary1, Yi-Hsu Ju2, Hisham S M Abd-Rabboh3
1Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 9004, Saudi Arabia; Applied Research Sector, Egyptian Organization for Biological Products and Vaccines (VACSERA Holding Company), 51 Wezaret El-Zeraa St., Agouza, Giza, Egypt.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|April 4, 2017
Summary
Chromatin packages the cell
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The human body contains trillions of cells, each with genomic DNA in its nucleus.
- DNA's negatively charged backbone poses challenges for its folding and organization.
- Chromatin, discovered in 1880, is the fundamental unit of genomic DNA organization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which chromatin packages DNA within the cell nucleus.
- To explore how DNA organization within the nucleus influences gene expression.
Main Methods:
- This article provides a review of existing research and established knowledge.
- It synthesizes findings on DNA structure and chromatin formation.
- The review focuses on the biophysical principles governing DNA folding.
Main Results:
- Chromatin structure facilitates the compact organization of vast amounts of DNA within the nucleus.
- The intricate packaging of DNA by chromatin plays a crucial role in regulating gene accessibility and expression.
- Specific chromatin conformations are linked to differential gene activity.
Conclusions:
- Chromatin is essential for managing genomic DNA within the nucleus.
- DNA packaging by chromatin is a key determinant of gene expression regulation.
- Understanding chromatin organization is vital for comprehending cellular function and genetic control.