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The Epigenetic Code definitions

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  • Chromatin
    A DNA-protein complex whose condensation state regulates gene accessibility and expression within the cell nucleus.
  • Euchromatin
    A loosely packed chromatin form that permits access to DNA, enabling active gene expression.
  • Heterochromatin
    A densely packed chromatin region that restricts DNA accessibility, leading to gene silencing.
  • Histone
    A protein component of chromatin with modifiable tails, crucial for DNA packaging and regulation.
  • Nucleosome
    A structural chromatin unit consisting of DNA wrapped around a histone core, subject to positional changes.
  • Acetylation
    A histone tail modification that removes positive charge, loosening chromatin and enhancing gene accessibility.
  • Methylation
    A histone tail modification that tightens chromatin structure, often repressing gene expression.
  • Amino Acid
    A building block of histone tails, serving as sites for diverse chemical modifications affecting chromatin state.
  • Barrier Sequence
    A DNA element that halts the spread of histone modifications, maintaining distinct chromatin domains.
  • Chromatin Remodeling Complex
    A protein assembly using ATP to reposition nucleosomes, altering DNA accessibility for cellular processes.
  • Epigenetic Code
    A dynamic pattern of histone modifications that collectively influence gene expression and chromatin behavior.
  • Epigenetic Inheritance
    The transmission of chromatin states and histone modifications across cell divisions, independent of DNA sequence.
  • Cell Memory
    A phenomenon where non-genetic chromatin states are retained through cell generations, guiding cellular identity.
  • Position Effect
    A phenomenon where gene expression is influenced by proximity to heterochromatin, often leading to silencing.