Abstract
Each nucleated somatic cell in our bodies contains a roughly identical complement of genetic material. Yet, some cells exhibit the specialized features of muscle and others skin; some cells transmit neural impulses and still others fight viral infections. This diversity of cell fate and function results from unique combinations of transcriptional activators and repressors that regulate patterns of gene expression and silencing throughout development. For trans-factors to exert their influence they must have access to relevant gene control elements located in chromatin. This is not a straightforward proposition as interphase chromatin is highly ordered, with nonreplicating DNA intimately packaged into repeating, histone-rich nucleosomes. One feature of chromatin that supports trans-factor-induced cell specification and function is a dynamic nucleosome structural configuration, which may be altered to provide or limit access to specific DNA regulatory regions. The elements controlling heritable changes in chromatin configuration and gene expression patterns without altering the primary DNA sequence itself are termed “epigenetic” modifications. These include changes in nucleosome positioning, histone content, and patterns of covalent amino-termi
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
