Chromatin loops in gene regulation.
The control of gene expression involves regulatory elements that can be very far from the genes they control. Several recent technological advances have allowed the direct detection of chromatin loops that juxtapose distant genomic sites in the nucleus. Here we review recent studies from various model organisms that have provided new insights into the functions of chromatin loops and the mechanisms that form them. We discuss the widespread impact of chromatin loops on gene activation, repression, genomic imprinting and the function of enhancers and insulators.
Kadauke
Stephan
S
Division of Hematology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Blobel
Gerd A
GA
D000818:Animals; D002843:Chromatin / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D004742:Enhancer Elements, Genetic / Q000502:physiology*; D005786:Gene Expression Regulation / Q000502:physiology*; D018392:Genomic Imprinting / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D038101:Insulator Elements / Q000502:physiology*
D002843:Chromatin