In the loop: how chromatin topology links genome structure to function in mechanisms underlying learning and memory. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Watson, L Ashley; Tsai, Li-Huei
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in neurobiology. Volume 43(2017)
• Page Start: 48
• Page End: 55
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: Neurobiology -- Periodicals; 573.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2016.12.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-4388

Abstract

Highlights: Epigenetic regulation represents a key mechanism of learning, memory and cognition. Chromatin topology is emerging as a major regulator of neuronal gene expression. Dynamic chromatin topology changes correlate with activity-dependent transcription. DNA double-strand breaks facilitate induction of immediate early gene transcription. Abstract : Different aspects of learning, memory, and cognition are regulated by epigenetic mechanisms such as covalent DNA modifications and histone post-translational modifications. More recently, the modulation of chromatin architecture and nuclear organization is emerging as a key factor in dynamic transcriptional regulation of the post-mitotic neuron. For instance, neuronal activity induces relocalization of gene loci to 'transcription factories', and specific enhancer–promoter looping contacts allow for precise transcriptional regulation. Moreover, neuronal activity-dependent DNA double-strand break formation in the promoter of immediate early genes appears to overcome topological constraints on transcription. Together, these findings point to a critical role for genome topology in integrating dynamic environmental signals to define precise spatiotemporal gene expression programs supporting cognitive processes.