Largest catalog yet of how human cells read DNA shows how chemical marks alter genetic instructions
Researchers have compiled the most comprehensive catalog to date of human transcription factor binding preferences, known as the 'Codebook.' This study helps explain how different cells read the same DNA to perform specialized functions, providing a vital resource for understanding gene regulation and disease.
Why it matters
Mapping the 'dictionary' of gene regulation is a foundational step in medical research, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating genetic diseases and developmental disorders.
by Nik Papageorgiou, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Every cell in the body contains essentially the same DNA, yet a brain cell behaves differently from a muscle cell or an immune cell. The difference lies largely in how each cell reads its genetic instructions.
Proteins called transcription factors bind specific DNA sequences and help control when and where genes are active. They direct processes ranging from embryonic development to immune function. When this regulation goes wrong, disease can result. But although the human genome contains around 1,600 transcription factors, the DNA-binding preferences of many have remained unknown.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in