[DNA-binding lipids: composition and possible functions]

The experimental data concerning the composition of DNA-bound lipids of different eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have been summarized. Using X-ray diffraction patterns, circular dichroism, microcalorimetry, electron microscopy, viscoelastometry and sedimentation methods, it has been proved that the lipids are important integral components of chromosomal DNA. It was shown that the DNA-bound lipids have a specific composition which differs from that of chromatin, nuclear membrane and matrix lipids. The composition of these lipids changes depending on the activity of the genome and the phase of the cell cycle as well as when DNA passes from a supercoiled into a relaxed state. The DNA of cancer cells has a specific composition of the lipid component. The lipids take part in the regulation of transcription. The DNA-bound lipids are hypersensitive target sites for ionizing radiation and anticancer agents. The role of this lipid class in structure-functional organization of chromosomal DNA is discussed.