title: Nongenetic functions of the genome.
abstract: The primary function of the genome is to store, propagate, and express the genetic information that gives rise to a cell's architectural and functional machinery. However, the genome is also a major structural component of the cell. Besides its genetic roles, the genome affects cellular functions by nongenetic means through its physical and structural properties, particularly by exerting mechanical forces and by serving as a scaffold for binding of cellular components. Major cellular processes affected by nongenetic functions of the genome include establishment of nuclear structure, signal transduction, mechanoresponses, cell migration, and vision in nocturnal animals. We discuss the concept, mechanisms, and implications of nongenetic functions of the genome.
authors.affiliation: National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bustin
authors.affiliation: National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
authors.forename: Tom
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Misteli
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002465:Cell Movement; D002467:Cell Nucleus / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism / Q000648:ultrastructure; D004247:DNA / Q000737:chemistry / Q000648:ultrastructure; D004249:DNA Damage; D016678:Genome / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D040542:Mechanotransduction, Cellular; D009690:Nucleic Acid Conformation; D015398:Signal Transduction; D013314:Stress, Mechanical
chemical_list: D004247:DNA