A model of the large-scale organization of chromatin. (21st March 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barbieri, Mariano; Chotalia, Mita; Fraser, James; Lavitas, Liron-Mark; Dostie, Josée; Pombo, Ana; Nicodemi, Mario
• Is Part Of: Biochemical Society transactions. Volume 41:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 508
• Page End: 512
• Publication Date: 2013-03-21
• Subjects: chromatin organization -- chromosome capture -- polymer physics -- self-organization -- strings and binders switch model -- thermodynamics; Biochemistry -- Congresses; 572
• DOI: 10.1042/BST20120238
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-5127

Abstract

Abstract : In the cell nucleus, chromosomes have a complex spatial organization, spanning several length scales, which serves vital functional purposes. It is unknown, however, how their three-dimensional architecture is orchestrated. In the present article, we review the application of a model based on classical polymer physics, the strings and binders switch model, to explain the molecular mechanisms of chromatin self-organization. We explore the scenario where chromatin architecture is shaped and regulated by the interactions of chromosomes with diffusing DNA-binding factors via thermodynamics mechanisms and compare it with available experimental data.