- News
- Science News
- Second code found in DNA
This story is from July 25, 2006
Second code found in DNA
The new result was plausible as it generalised the idea that DNA is more bendable at certain sequences.
The second code, superimposed on the first, sets placement of nucleosomes, miniature protein spools around which the DNA is looped. The spools both protect and control access to the DNA itself.
The discovery, if confirmed, could open new insights into the higher order control of the genes, like the critical but still mysterious process by which each type of human cell is allowed to activate the genes it needs but cannot access the genes used by other types of cell.
The new code is described in the current issue of Nature by Eran Segal of the Weizmann Institute in Israel and Jonathan Widom of Northwestern University in Illinois and their colleagues.
There are about 30 million nucleosomes in each human cell. So many are needed because the DNA strand wraps around each one only 1.65 times, in a twist containing 147 of its units, and the DNA molecule in a single chromosome can be up to 225 million units in length.
Segal and Widom analysed the sequence at some 200 sites in the yeast genome, and discovered that there is indeed a hidden pattern.
Knowing the pattern, they were able to predict the placement of about 50% of the nucleosomes in other organisms. Experts said the new result was plausible as it generalised the long-standing idea that DNA is more bendable at certain sequences.
The discovery, if confirmed, could open new insights into the higher order control of the genes, like the critical but still mysterious process by which each type of human cell is allowed to activate the genes it needs but cannot access the genes used by other types of cell.
The new code is described in the current issue of Nature by Eran Segal of the Weizmann Institute in Israel and Jonathan Widom of Northwestern University in Illinois and their colleagues.
There are about 30 million nucleosomes in each human cell. So many are needed because the DNA strand wraps around each one only 1.65 times, in a twist containing 147 of its units, and the DNA molecule in a single chromosome can be up to 225 million units in length.
Biologists have suspected for years that some positions on the DNA, notably those where it bends most easily, might be more favourable for nucleosomes than others, but no overall pattern was apparent.
Segal and Widom analysed the sequence at some 200 sites in the yeast genome, and discovered that there is indeed a hidden pattern.
Knowing the pattern, they were able to predict the placement of about 50% of the nucleosomes in other organisms. Experts said the new result was plausible as it generalised the long-standing idea that DNA is more bendable at certain sequences.
End of Article
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Hot Picks
TOP TRENDING
Trending Stories
In Section
Entire Website
- Malaika Arora's father Anil Arora dies by suicide in Mumbai
- 7 Key Reasons Why UPSC is the Toughest Exam in India
- 9/11 Remembrance Day: Key moments from the deadliest attack on US
- Howard University: 10 landmark firsts of the institution that shaped Kamala Harris
- Earthquake of magnitude 5.8 strikes Pakistan, tremors felt in Delhi, neighbouring areas
- Who were Barack Obama's challengers in 2008 and 2012 US presidential elections?
- 'A in INDIA alliance': Rahul Gandhi's slip-up during address to Indian-Americans goes viral
- Trump vs Harris: Betting markets reveal who’s expected to win the US presidential debate
- IGNOU December 2024 Term-End Exam: Registration Details, Important Dates, and Fee Structure
- Top 10 TED Talks to Boost Confidence and Success for Female Students
- From 'leaked tapes' to drone attacks: How Manipur spiralled back into violence
- 'Live telecast ...' : Impasse continues as Kolkata doctors list new demands
- iPhone success shows India can beat China to become world's factory
- 'Anti-national statements': Shah targets Rahul over remarks on quota
- Two terrorists killed by security forces in J&K's Udhampur
- Sikh groups protest against Rahul's remarks in US, demand apology
- Is this India’s chance to replace Bangladesh as world’s clothing factory?
- iPhone 16 series launched: Complete features, price and how to pre-order
- 'Pick someone first, then ... ': Akhilesh cites 'pattern of encounters' under BJP rule
- Trump vs. Harris: Their stance on student loans, teaching sexuality and more
Popular Categories
Hot on the Web
Top Trends
Trending Topics
Deepika PadukoneMalaika Arora Father DeathArbaaz KhanJayram RaviAishwarya Rai BachchanSlat WaterWeight GainGOAT CollectionVikas Sethi DeathMalayalam ProducersIndia's Best Dancer 4Simi GarewalDilli BabuIndian National ParksLaung BenefitsVikas SethiiPhone 16Dubai Princess Sheikha MahraMG Windsor EvWordle Answer
Living and entertainment
Latest News
Manju Warrier expresses gratitude for birthday wishes: "Forever humbled and grateful"Haryana HPSC PGT admit card 2024 out at hpsc.gov.in: Direct link to download hall ticket here6,0,6,6,6 - Smashing Kieron Pollard rolls back the clock in Caribbean Premier League - WatchJiiva and wife escape with minor injuries after a road accidentWhy can Banyan trees survive for centuries and spread indefinitely?Afghanistan vs New Zealand: Why is Greater Noida stadium hosting a Test match?Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra spotted at the Siddhivinayak Temple; video insideNBA 2K25 locker codes September 2024: Locker codes revealed and know how to reveal themDonald Trump and Kamala Harris shake hands as they meet for first time on debate stage: Watch the 'awkward' momentPrince William’s commitment to a lasting marriage with KateVarun Dhawan shares unfiltered reaction to Janhvi Kapoor's 'Daavudi' song from 'Devara: Part 1': 'So freaking good...'When Jaya Bachchan revealed she had a huge crush on Dharmendra, called him a 'Greek God' in front of Hema MaliniJr NTR starrer 'Devara: Part 1' completes censorship formalities; receives UA certificate'Trump should not be telling a woman what to do with her body', says Kamala Harris on abortion rights during US presidential debateArbaaz Khan spotted outside Malaika Arora's house along with police after the tragic news of her father's demise by alleged suicide - WATCH VIDEOShivaji statue collapse: Sculptor’s custody extended till September 13Vijay Sethupathi and Trisha starrer '96' to have a sequel, reveals Prem Kumar7 Common veggies that are loaded with iron and essential nutrients
Copyright © 2024 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service