Modeling epigenome folding: formation and dynamics of topologically associated chromatin domains.

ABSTRACT: Genomes of eukaryotes are partitioned into domains of functionally distinct chromatin states. These domains are stably inherited across many cell generations and can be remodeled in response to developmental and external cues, hence contributing to the robustness and plasticity of expression patterns and cell phenotypes. Remarkably, recent studies indicate that these 1D epigenomic domains tend to fold into 3D topologically associated domains forming specialized nuclear chromatin compartments. However, the general mechanisms behind such compartmentalization including the contribution of epigenetic regulation remain unclear. Here, we address the question of the coupling between chromatin folding and epigenome. Using polymer physics, we analyze the properties of a block copolymer model that a

SUBMITTER: Jost D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4150797 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature