X-inactivation: close encounters of the X kind.
X chromosome inactivation ensures equal dosage of X-linked genes between male and female mammals. Two new studies have shown that the initiation of inactivation is preceded by X chromosome pairing; their results implicate this pairing in the choice and counting functions of X chromosome inactivation.
Division of Developmental Genetics and Stem Cell Research, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London, UK. jturner@nimr.mrc.ac.uk
James M A
JM
Turner
D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D023902:Chromosome Pairing; D005260:Female; D017404:In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence; D008297:Male; D008957:Models, Genetic; D013234:Stem Cells; D014960:X Chromosome / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D049951:X Chromosome Inactivation / Q000502:physiology*