Distinguishing epigenetic marks of developmental and imprinting regulation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The field of epigenetics is developing rapidly, however we are only beginning to comprehend the complexity of its influence on gene regulation. Using genomic imprinting as a model we examine epigenetic profiles associated with different forms of gene regulation. Imprinting refers to the expression of a gene from only one of the chromosome homologues in a parental-origin-specific manner. This is dependent on heritable germline epigenetic control at a cis-acting imprinting control region that influences local epigenetic states. Epigenetic modifications associated with imprinting regulation can be compared to those associated with the more canonical developmental regulation, important for processes such as differentiation and tissue specificity. Here we test the hypothesis

SUBMITTER: McEwen KR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2841594 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature