Local volume concentration, packing domains, and scaling properties of chromatin
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: We propose the Self Returning Excluded Volume (SR-EV) model for the structure of chromatin based on stochastic rules and physical interactions. The SR-EV rules of return generate conformationally defined domains observed by single-cell imaging techniques. From nucleosome to chromosome scales, the model captures the overall chromatin organization as a corrugated system, with dense and dilute regions alternating in a manner that resembles the mixing of two disordered bi-continuous phases. This particular organizational topology is a consequence of the multiplicity of interactions and processes occurring in the nuclei, and mimicked by the proposed return rules. Single configuration properties and ensemble averages show a robust agreement between theoretical and experimental results including chromatin volume concentration, contact probability, packing domain identification and size characterization, and packing scaling behavior. Model and experimental results suggest that there is an inherent chromatin organization regardless of the cell character and resistant to an external forcing such as RAD21 degradation.
Source: eLife
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,500
Awards: G1378850359, G2361442177, G338073694, G537418842, EFRI CEE: Macrogenomic engineering via modulation of chromatin nanoenvironment, Northwestern University Allergy and Immunology Research (NUAIR) Program, Translating buccal nanocytology for lung cancer screening into clinical practice, Northwestern University Center for Chromatin NanoImaging in Cancer (NU-CCNIC)
OpenAlex ID: W4402903387