histones
DNA packaging proteins
Histones are proteins that DNA wraps around in the cell nucleus, acting like spools that organize and compact genetic material.
Without histones, the DNA in a single human cell would stretch about six feet—histones package it into a nucleus a few micrometers wide.
Histones also regulate which genes get expressed; chemical modifications to histones can activate or silence stretches of DNA.
Histone-DNA complex
- chromatinNuclear protein-wrapped genetic material
- linkerCombiner of separate parts
- tailRear animal appendage
- N-terminalPeptide's amine-bearing end
wrapping · spool · compaction · higher-order · solenoid
Acetyl group attachment
- methylationAttaching a methyl group
- phosphorylationPhosphate group attachment process
- lysineEssential amino acid
- arginineProtein-building amino compound
serine · marks · crosstalk · readers · writers · erasers · HAT · HDAC
Written version of speech
- gene expressionDNA to functional product
- remodelingAltering existing structures
- accessibilityEase of approach
- slidingMoving smoothly across surface
Setting into operation
- imprintingRapid early learning attachment
- bivalentHaving valence of two
- poisedCalm and controlled
- heritableCapable of genetic transmission
reprogramming · developmental · enhancer · promoter · CpG islands
Accepted as standard
- replacementWhat takes another's place
- DNA damageInjury to genetic material
- spermMale reproductive cell
- exchangeMutual giving and receiving
nucleosome
Histone-DNA complex
- chromatinNuclear protein-wrapped genetic material
- linkerCombiner of separate parts
- tailRear animal appendage
N-terminal · wrapping · spool · compaction · higher-order · solenoid
acetylation
Acetyl group attachment
- methylationAttaching a methyl group
- phosphorylationPhosphate group attachment process
- lysineEssential amino acid
arginine · serine · marks · crosstalk · readers · writers · erasers · HAT · HDAC
transcription
Written version of speech
- gene expressionDNA to functional product
- remodelingAltering existing structures
- accessibilityEase of approach
sliding · eviction · turnover · dynamic · occupancy · barrier
activation
Setting into operation
- imprintingRapid early learning attachment
- bivalentHaving valence of two
- poisedCalm and controlled
heritable · reprogramming · developmental · enhancer · promoter · CpG islands
canonical
Accepted as standard
- replacementWhat takes another's place
- DNA damageInjury to genetic material
- spermMale reproductive cell