DNA loops tagged posts

Ratio of the CTCF and RAD21 ChIP-seq signals occurring within interacting enhancers and non-interacting enhancers, anchored at peaks for CTCF, RAD21, and the transcription factors CUX1 and HCFC1 for the K562 cell line.

Breakthrough technology opens the door to identifying new drug targets that could treat many genetic diseases. Scientists at the Gladstone Institutes have invented a new way to read and interpret the human genome. The computational method, TargetFinder, can predict where non-coding DNA-the DNA that does not code for proteins – interacts with genes. This technology helps researchers connect mutations in the so-called genomic “dark matter” with the genes they affect, potentially revealing new therapeutic targets for genetic disorders. Influence of features by region.

In this schematic of a chromosome’s 3D structure, the DNA loops (black) are anchored by CTCF proteins (purple) at their bases. Regulatory elements, called enhancers (red) only affect the genes (black arrows) that reside in the loops with them. The protein cohesin (blue rings) forms the looped structures. Credit: Courtesy of Cell Press

A map has been created of the DNA loops that comprise 3D structure of the human genome and contribute to gene regulation in human embryonic stem cells. The location of genes and regulatory elements within this chromosomal framework will help scientists better navigate their genomic research, establishing relationships between mutations and disease development.

This is transformational,” says Whitehead Member Richard Young...

Shelterin recruits accessory proteins to the telomeres that facilitate the complex process of telomere copying and maintenance associated with cell multiplication.

Telomere length related to ageing and cancer, has led to the intense study of telomere-based strategies to combat cancer and diseases associated with ageing. Blasco’s group has recently shown that it is possible to make cancer cells mortal by acting on the telomeres.

We now know that there is a protective structure enveloping telomeric DNA consisting of 6 proteins known as shelterins, which are crucial. Another more recent discovery is there are proteins that, although not in telomeres themselves, interact with them at specific times to enable them to perform their functions...