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"Scientists Uncover Tiny Genomic Loops in Dividing Cells' 3D Structure"
MIT scientists have discovered tiny genomic loops within the 3D structure of the genome, which may significantly influence gene regulation during cell division.
- Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that tiny loops, or microcompartments, form within the 3D structure of the genome during mitosis.
- These microcompartments may play a crucial role in controlling gene expression, challenging previous beliefs about the genomes organization during cell division.
- Transcription (biology) processes could be affected by these genomic loops, suggesting a connection between regulatory sequences and the physical structure of DNA during cell division.
Why It Matters
This discovery has profound implications for understanding how chromosome organization affects gene regulation, potentially impacting research in genetics and cellular biology. It could lead to new insights into diseases linked to genetic dysregulation.