Think Tank 2
Chromatin State Regulation
Description:Loosely speaking chromatin is composed of DNA wrapped around histones. Eight histones make up a nucleosome. Groups of nucleosomes can be packed to influence the accessibility of the associated DNA. Regulation of eukaryotic gene activity is under control of many proteins that all act on DNA and histones. Hereby they influence the chromatin state to influence gene activity. These processes are typically regulated by protein complexes composed of for instance transcription factors, histone (covalently) modifying enzymes, and nucleosome remodelling motor proteins. Gene activity is also dependent on DNA looping, which could either have a stimulatory or inhibitory effect on gene activity. Current experimental techniques allow for mechanistic insight into the dynamics of chromatin state regulation and the consequence for gene activity. Within NISB, Bruggeman, Verschure and Van Driel have a strong interest in chromatin state regulatory processes and they have projects underway that combine experimental and theoretical aspects. We are convinced that this Think Tank topic harbours many promising challenges for systems biology. We propose to identify and explore new joint research projects in this Think Tank.
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