Researchers at Kyushu University discovered the connection between spatial distance in DNA and gene activity bursts. The folding and movement of DNA, as well as protein accumulation, change based on gene activity levels. This study, published in Science Advances, provides insight into gene expression complexities and potential therapeutic applications for gene expression-related diseases. Gene transcription occurs in bursts of activity in individual cells, impacting protein production timing and levels. Enhanced cell imaging technologies revealed the erratic nature of transcriptional bursting and the role of enhancers in amplifying gene activity. Computer modeling predicted longer interaction periods between enhancers and promoters during active gene states. Future research aims to confirm these findings in actual cells.
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Study reveals how DNA folding drives gene activity bursts
