Chromatin's physical properties shape the nucleus and its functions. (June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stephens, Andrew D; Banigan, Edward J; Marko, John F
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in cell biology. Volume 58(2019)
• Page Start: 76
• Page End: 84
• Publication Date: 2019-06
• Subjects: Cells -- Periodicals; Cytology -- Periodicals; Cell Biology -- Periodicals; Biology -- Periodicals; Cells -- Periodicals; Review Literature -- Periodicals; Cell Biology; Biology; Cells; Review Literature; Cellules -- Périodiques; Cytologie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 571.6
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2019.02.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0955-0674

Abstract

Abstract : The cell nucleus encloses, organizes, and protects the genome. Chromatin maintains nuclear mechanical stability and shape in coordination with lamins and the cytoskeleton. Abnormal nuclear shape is a diagnostic marker for human diseases, and it can cause nuclear dysfunction. Chromatin mechanics underlies this link, as alterations to chromatin and its physical properties can disrupt or rescue nuclear shape. The cell can regulate nuclear shape through mechanotransduction pathways that sense and respond to extracellular cues, thus modulating chromatin compaction and rigidity. These findings reveal how chromatin's physical properties can regulate cellular function and drive abnormal nuclear morphology and dysfunction in disease.