Heterochromatin formation: role of short RNAs and DNA methylation.
The role of small double-stranded RNAs is considered in formation of silent chromatin structure. Small RNAs are implicated in the regulation of individual gene transcription, suppression of transposon expression, and in maintaining functional structure of extended heterochromatic regions. Interrelations between short RNA-dependent gene silencing, histone modifications, and DNA methylation are discussed. Specific features of RNA-induced chromatin repression in various eucaryotes are also described.
Klenov
M S
MS
Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 123182, Russia. klenov@img.ras.ru
Gvozdev
V A
VA
D000818:Animals; D019175:DNA Methylation; D004251:DNA Transposable Elements; D020868:Gene Silencing; D006570:Heterochromatin / Q000378:metabolism*; D010944:Plants / Q000235:genetics; D012313:RNA / Q000502:physiology*; D012330:RNA, Double-Stranded / Q000502:physiology*; D014158:Transcription, Genetic; D015003:Yeasts / Q000235:genetics
D004251:DNA Transposable Elements; D006570:Heterochromatin; D012330:RNA, Double-Stranded; D012313:RNA