AI discovery reveals DNA isn’t locked away in cells after all
4 hours ago
- #gene regulation
- #chromatin
- #AI in biology
- DNA is tightly wrapped around nucleosomes to fit inside cells, challenging the view that wrapped DNA is inactive.
- AI-powered tool IDLI reveals most nucleosomes have partially accessible DNA, suggesting dynamic gene control.
- Nucleosomes exist in 14 structural states linked to gene activity, showing genome accessibility is nuanced and programmed.
- Transcription factors shape nucleosome structures, influencing DNA accessibility for gene regulation.
- Findings may impact understanding of complex diseases like cancer, where gene expression gradations are key.
- The tool could aid aging research by mapping nucleosome changes, potentially leading to therapeutic interventions.