Genome organization: Tag it, move it, place it

Curr Opin Cell Biol. 2021 Feb:68:90-97. doi: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.10.005. Epub 2020 Nov 7.

Abstract

Chromosomes are selectively organized within the nuclei of interphase cells reflecting the current fate of each cell and are reorganized in response to various physiological cues to maintain homeostasis. Although substantial progress is being made to establish the various patterns of genome architecture, less is understood on how chromosome folding/positioning is achieved. Here, we discuss recent insights into the cellular mechanisms dictating chromatin movements including the use of epigenetic modifications and allosterically regulated transcription factors, as well as a nucleoskeleton system comprised of actin, myosin, and actin-binding proteins. Together, these nuclear factors help coordinate the positioning of both general and cell-specific genomic architectural features.

Keywords: Chromatin remodelers; Chromosome organization; Molecular chaperones; Nuclear actin; Nucleoskeleton.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Actins / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cell Nucleus / metabolism
  • Chromatin / metabolism
  • Chromosomes / chemistry
  • Chromosomes / metabolism
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Eukaryotic Cells / chemistry*
  • Genome*
  • Humans
  • Interphase
  • Myosins / metabolism

Substances

  • Actins
  • Chromatin
  • Myosins