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X-Inactivation definitions

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  • Dosage Compensation
    A mechanism ensuring equal expression of X-linked genes in both sexes, despite differing numbers of X chromosomes.
  • Barr Body
    A condensed, inactive X chromosome found in female cells, formed to prevent excess X-linked gene expression.
  • X Inactivation Center
    A critical region on the X chromosome containing genes necessary for initiating and regulating inactivation.
  • XIST Gene
    A locus producing RNA that coats and silences one X chromosome, preventing its gene expression.
  • TSIX Gene
    A gene producing antisense RNA that blocks inactivation on the active X chromosome by counteracting XIST RNA.
  • Histones
    DNA-binding proteins that compact chromatin, making the inactivated X chromosome transcriptionally silent.
  • DNA Methylation
    The addition of methyl groups to DNA, further repressing gene expression on the inactivated X chromosome.
  • Heterochromatin
    A tightly packed chromatin state, characteristic of the inactive X chromosome, preventing gene transcription.
  • Antisense RNA
    A complementary RNA molecule produced by TSIX, which binds to XIST RNA to inhibit its function.
  • Gene Expression
    The process by which genetic information is used to synthesize gene products, regulated during X inactivation.
  • Maternal X Chromosome
    The X chromosome inherited from the mother, which may be randomly inactivated in female cells.
  • Paternal X Chromosome
    The X chromosome inherited from the father, also subject to random inactivation in human females.
  • Autosome
    A non-sex chromosome, which can be mistakenly inactivated if the X inactivation center is mutated.
  • RNA Coating
    The process where XIST RNA envelops the inactive X chromosome, ensuring its transcriptional silencing.
  • Random Inactivation
    The phenomenon in humans where either the maternal or paternal X chromosome is silenced in each cell.