Chromatin
Articles tagged with Chromatin
New AI tool developed by Stowers Institute and Helmholtz Munich scientists predicts how cells choose their future — helping uncover hidden drivers of development
Researchers developed RegVelo, an AI framework that models cellular dynamics and gene regulation to predict cellular fate decisions. The model traces developmental trajectories and simulates regulatory interactions, providing insights into hidden drivers of development and potential therapeutic targets.
Earliest signs of neurodegeneration in Down syndrome detected shortly after birth
AI method tackles one of science's hardest math problems
Researchers developed a new framework, 'Mollifier Layers,' to tackle challenging inverse PDEs. This advance could benefit fields such as genetics and weather forecasting by inferring hidden forces that produce observable patterns.
AI discovery reveals DNA isn’t locked away in cells after all
Researchers used a new AI-powered computational method to discover that most nucleosomes contain sections of DNA that are partially accessible to the cell. The study found that more than 85% of nucleosomes showed some degree of distortion, with 14 distinct structural states associated with different levels of gene activity.
Researchers identify how enzyme affects infertility and cancer progression
A specific region of Dicer must be activated to achieve proper cell division and reproduction, a discovery that sheds light on the regulation of this enzyme's critical role in both cancer biology and fertility. This finding opens new avenues for studying how small epigenetic changes contribute to disease.
The immune system edits defective antibodies with a conveyer belt-like process, finds new research
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have identified a mechanism for immune cells to recycle defective or autoreactive antibodies by editing their genes. The new process uses an enzyme called RAG to swap out light chains with nearby new ones, often making them non-defective and functional.
Why anti-cancer drugs do not always live up to expectations
A new study reveals that two key BET proteins, BRD2 and BRD4, perform distinct roles in gene activation. Blocking both simultaneously disrupts the process, producing unpredictable effects. Targeted therapies may be more effective if they distinguish between these roles.
Linker histone H1 acts as a liquid-like “glue” for chromatin
A recent study reveals that linker histone H1 binds to nucleosomes and creates a dynamic, flexible network that condenses chromatin. This new understanding suggests that chromatin behaves like a liquid-like 'glue' rather than a rigid structure.
Scientists identify the gatekeeper of retinal progenitor cell identity
Researchers discovered Setd8 enzyme preserves retinal progenitor cell flexibility, enabling potential regenerative vision therapies. The study highlights a potential target for repairing damaged retinas, with implications for regenerative medicine and ophthalmology.
New UNC Charlotte study reveals how just three molecules can launch gene-silencing condensates, organizing the epigenome and controlling stem cell differentiation
A new study by UNC Charlotte scientists has discovered a self-clustering mechanism in the Polycomb protein CBX2 that is essential for initiating gene-repressive condensates and guiding stem cells toward their proper fates. The researchers found that CBX2 clusters recruit two Polycomb repressive complexes, creating multicomponent repres...
4D Nucleome Consortium produces detailed models of the 3D genome over time in cells
The study created a critical framework for understanding the architecture of the genome and its association with gene function in cells. The 4DN Consortium integrated data from over a dozen techniques to compile an extensive catalogue of looping interactions between genes and regulatory elements.
Chromatin accessibility maps reveal how stem cells drive myelodysplastic progression
Chromatin accessibility maps reveal that MDS stem cells gradually lose their normal identity and acquire characteristics typical of myeloid progenitors. A 'progenitor score' developed by the team tracks cell movement toward a progenitor-like state, correlating with disease severity and prognosis.
Scientists uncover a new role for DNA loops in repairing genetic damage
Researchers found that DNA loops facilitate homologous recombination, a key DNA repair process linked to cancer. These loops enable the repair machinery to scan for an intact copy of the damaged region more efficiently.
Scientists capture first detailed look inside droplet-like structures of compacted DNA
Researchers have captured the most detailed images yet of molecules inside synthetic chromatin condensates, allowing them to understand how these droplet-like structures form and function. The team found that linker DNA length affects structure arrangement, which in turn dictates interactions between chromatin fibers.
Understanding emerges: MBL scientists visualize the creation of condensates
Researchers at MBL propose a model for how properties of individual molecules emerge to form liquid droplets called condensates. By combining imaging and computer simulations, they reveal the importance of linker DNA in determining condensate structure.
Shapeshifting cancers’ masters, unmasked
Cancer researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified key proteins that determine the behavior of two hard-to-treat carcinomas, pancreatic cancer and tuft cell lung cancer. These findings could lead to new therapies targeting specific vulnerabilities in these cancers.
DNA shape and rigidity regulate key players of gene expression
Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center discovered that inflexible DNA within nucleosomes regulates the positioning of INO80, a chromatin remodeling complex. This unique mechanism allows INO80 to position itself on the surface of nucleosomes at the right location.
Stress hormones silence key brain genes through chromatin-bound RNAs, study reveals
Researchers have discovered that stress hormones can silence crucial neuronal genes by interacting with long noncoding RNAs and the polycomb repressive complex 2. This mechanism may provide a new understanding of how stress affects gene expression, particularly in relation to synaptic function and calcium signaling.
Researchers discover a safe new target against Acute Myeloid Leukaemia
Researchers have identified a new histone variant, macroH2A1.1, as a potential therapeutic target for treating Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. The study found that targeting this variant is safe for patients and may lead to new treatment options.
3D DNA looping discovery in rice paves the way for higher yields with less fertilizer
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences identify a key gene and protein involved in controlling DNA looping, leading to increased grain yield and nitrogen efficiency. The discovery paves the way for future crop breeding strategies to improve sustainability.
Hunting for the chromosomal genes that break the heart
Researchers used CRISPR technology to identify HMGN1, a nuclear binding protein that contributes to trisomy 21-related CHDs. The study found that an overabundance of HMGN1 leads to abnormal heart development and gene expression.
Air pollution can contribute to obesity and diabetes
Long-term exposure to fine air pollutants like PM2.5 can impair metabolic health by disrupting the normal function of brown fat through complex epigenetic changes. The study identified two enzymes, HDAC9 and KDM2B, as key drivers of this process.
Does early-life cellular activity influence cancer and aging?
Telomeres, which cap chromosomes, are inherited from parents in a parent-of-origin effect, with mothers contributing short telomeres and fathers long ones. This process is linked to cancer risk and aging, and researchers hope to study it further using human genome sequencing.
Scientists discover new '3D genome organizer' linked to fertility and cancer
A new '3D genome organizer' has been discovered, crucial for sperm production in mice, and highly expressed in human immune cells and blood cancers. Blocking this complex may slow cancer growth and lead to new infertility treatments.
Muscle’s master regulator moonlights as gene silencer
Scientists have discovered that MYOD protein can act as a gene silencer, clearing out old 'furniture' to reset the cell's identity. This finding challenges dogma and opens up new avenues for understanding cellular reprogramming and regenerative medicine therapies.
Unraveling variations in ‘centromeres’: The engines of chromosomal segregation
Researchers analyzed centromeres in onion, garlic, and Welsh onion using CENH3-targeted antibody to map centromere regions. They found significant variations in size and position/mobility between species, challenging the static view of centromeres.
How DNA packaging controls the “genome’s guardian”
Scientists have found that nucleosomes act as gatekeepers for p53's molecular partners, controlling its access to the genetic code. This discovery reveals a new layer of regulation over p53's activity and opens possibilities for developing cancer therapies that restore or control p53 function.
New strategy doubles chemo effectiveness in treatment-resistant cancer
By reprogramming chromatin to prevent cancer cells from adapting to evade treatment, researchers have doubled chemotherapy effectiveness in animal experiments. This approach restores cellular memory, making existing drugs more effective against cancer.
Prof. Eran Meshorer elected to EMBO for pioneering work in epigenetics
Professor Eran Meshorer's groundbreaking research in epigenetics and stem cell biology has uncovered critical insights into chromatin structure and gene expression. His work has broad implications for regenerative medicine, developmental biology, and understanding neurological disorders.
Genomic stability in hybrid fish testes reveals mechanisms of fertility
A study on hybrid fish found that allelic genes and testis-specific genes play a crucial role in maintaining fertility, while orphan genes facilitate adaptation to new genetic environments. The research used long-read sequencing and Hi-C technology to construct high-quality genomes for reciprocal hybrids.
Using AI to identify genetic perturbations from cell images
Researchers developed an AI system called Image2Reg that can identify genetic perturbations in cell images, potentially leading to new drugs. The system uses machine learning and molecular networks to analyze patterns in chromatin structure, revealing links between genes and their functions.
Research fine tunes tools used to search for genetic causes of asthma
Researchers used genetic data and computational tools to identify genetic variants associated with asthma, finding differences between childhood- and adult-onset forms of the disease. The study provides insights into potential treatment targets for both types of asthma.
Most complex model of molecular 'wear-and-tear' to date shines light on how proteins age
Researchers at King's College London have developed a complex model of molecular 'wear-and-tear' that sheds light on how proteins age. The study found that chromatin, the DNA-protein mix, is more resilient to aging than previously thought, suggesting new avenues for anti-aging treatments.
With generative AI, MIT chemists quickly calculate 3D genomic structures
Researchers use generative AI to predict chromatin structures in single cells, overcoming limitations of existing experimental methods. The technique can generate thousands of structure predictions in minutes, enabling faster study of how 3D genome organization affects gene expression.
Seeing the unseen: New method reveals ’hyperaccessible’ window in freshly replicated DNA
Scientists from Gladstone Institutes developed a new method called RASAM, which made a surprising discovery that large sections of newly formed DNA are hyperaccessible for many hours. This finding holds important implications for basic understanding of biology and the development of new medicines.
Uncovering key molecular factors behind malaria’s deadliest strain
A UC Riverside-led team, funded by the NIH, aims to uncover molecular factors governing gene regulation and chromatin organization in P. falciparum. The project focuses on long non-coding RNAs, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and influencing disease progression.
How proteins and DNA architecture shape cellular identity: Discovery of 'signposts' that guide proteins to gene switches
A new study reveals how transcription factors navigate DNA and chromatin structures to determine cellular identity. Researchers discovered novel DNA elements as genomic signposts guiding TFs to specific genetic switches.
Understanding how the immune system switches between rest and action
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF identified MED12 as a crucial switch that regulates T cell rest and activation. The study found that MED12 promotes rest in resting cells and activation in activated cells, and its removal led to blurred lines between rest and activation.
DNA packaging directly affects how fast DNA is copied in cells
The study found that DNA packaging sends signals through an unusual pathway, affecting cell division and growth. Chromatin acts as a guide, telling the cell how to read and use the information in the DNA.
Gladstone researchers discover how chronic inflammation worsens heart failure
Gladstone researchers have identified a complex molecular connection between immune cells and fibroblasts that contributes to fibrosis in the heart, which may lead to new treatments for heart disease and other fibrotic conditions.
Research alert: A faster, more affordable technique for deciphering the genetics of cancer
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a faster and more affordable method to study chromatin organization, which influences gene activation and cell function. The droplet Hi-C technique has been successfully deployed to analyze chromatin organization in mouse brain cells and human tumors.
A new tool to predict nucleosome position
A team of scientists developed an advanced computational technique to predict gene architecture through nucleosome position, combining experimental approaches with machine learning techniques. The study demonstrates that nucleosomal architecture is greatly influenced by DNA sequence information and physical signals.
How cells maintain their central processing unit for cell division
Researchers at MPI unveiled PLK1's crucial role in replenishing CENP-A proteins per centromere, a process critical for cell division. PLK1 initiates a cascade of events by binding to specific machinery components and inducing phosphorylation changes.
Mouse study explores 3D structure of DNA in nerve cells
A mouse model study led by Ohio State University researchers reveals the importance of DNA loops and protein complex cohesin in nerve cell regeneration. The study's findings could lead to new treatments for nerve injuries by understanding how chromatin organization affects gene expression.
Researchers bend DNA strands with light, revealing a new way to study the genome
Scientists have found a way to rearrange DNA strands using light, enabling precise control over gene expression and potential new treatments for disease. The new method uses liquid-like droplets to manipulate DNA, revealing the material nature of chromosomes.
Researchers identify factor that drives prostate cancer-causing genes
A new study has identified NSD2 as a fundamental factor in early stages of prostate cancer development, found to alter androgen receptor function leading to rapid cell division and growth. The study may suggest a new way to therapeutically target prostate cancer by targeting the epigenetic component NSD2.
Unveiling the secret of blood regeneration: New insights into stress responses in hematopoietic stem cells (HSC)
Kumamoto University researchers discovered HMGA2's crucial role in regulating stress responses in hematopoietic stem cells. The gene enhances blood cell production recovery under stressful conditions, such as chemotherapy and infections.
Survival tactics: AI-driven insights into chromatin changes for winter dormancy in axillary buds
Researchers employed AI to analyze epigenetic impact of chromatin and transcriptional changes during winter dormancy in axillary apple buds. The study revealed genes related to cellular response to hypoxia, defense response to ABA, and circadian rhythm were activated during bud dormancy.
Chromatin structure plays a key role in canine social behavior evolution
A study found that chromatin's spatial structure plays a key role in the evolution of social behavior in dogs. The researchers examined an intronic section of the GTF2I gene, which influences chromatin's spatial structure and causes differences in gene expression.
New findings on possible therapies to target oncogenic transcription factors in multiple cancer types
A new study from Michigan Medicine suggests that inhibiting the SWI/SNF epigenetic complex can therapeutically target oncogenic transcription factors. The research, led by Arul Chinnaiyan, builds on previous work to find genetic vulnerabilities in transcription factor-driven cancers.
How epigenetics influence memory formation
Researchers found that epigenetic state affects neurons' recruitment into memory trace formation. Open chromatin states enable more efficient learning. The study opens new avenues for understanding learning and may lead to medication for improving cognitive disorders.
Scientists discover new T cells and genes related to immune disorders
Researchers have discovered several rare types of helper T cells associated with immune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that genetic variants in bidirectional enhancer DNA are linked to specific immune-mediated diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease.
Cooperative proteins help the immune system identify and attack invaders
Scientists at Salk Institute discover a molecular mechanism that helps macrophages mount a coordinated response tailored to a specific immune challenge. The discovery reveals new immune system mechanisms that could be targeted with therapeutics to regulate inflammation.
Chromatin openness sheds new light on prostate cancer plasticity
Researchers found that increased activity of the SIX2 protein contributes to increased cell plasticity and treatment resistance in prostate cancer cells. Silencing the SIX2 gene reduces malignancy and cancer spread in hormone therapy-resistant types of cancer.
An epigenome editing toolkit to dissect the mechanisms of gene regulation
Researchers have developed a modular epigenome editing platform to study the impact of chromatin modifications on transcription. The system allows for precise programming of nine biologically important chromatin marks, enabling the discovery of causal relationships between chromatin marks and gene regulation.
The last trick of p53: early 3D chromatin remodelling to trigger cellular stress response
Scientists discovered that p53 rapidly restructures 3D chromatin organization to trigger a transcriptional response, identifying 340 target genes and strengthening the role of cohesin complex in this process. This new mechanism may inspire new therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment.
Targeting the microenvironment rather than a specific cell type could be the key to healing injured hearts
A study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research reveals that a dynamic synergy between cell types facilitates cardiac renewal, challenging existing paradigms. Targeting the microenvironment rather than specific cell types is key to healing injured hearts.
Chromatin modifier-centered pathway points to higher crop yield
Researchers identified a key chromatin modifier-centered pathway for grain size regulation in rice, showing that HHC4 and bZIP23 interact and enhance grain size. Phosphorylation of HHC4 by TGW3 triggers negative influences on the pathway, leading to increased rice yield.
Vaccine boosts innate immunity in people with dormant immune cells
Researchers have found that the BCG vaccine can enhance innate immunity in individuals with dormant immune cells, predicting a positive response to vaccination. Trained immunity responders exhibited increased production of inflammatory mediators after vaccination.