Chromatin-silencing mechanisms in Drosophila maintain patterns of gene expression

Trends Genet. 1997 Aug;13(8):314-8. doi: 10.1016/s0168-9525(97)01178-5.

Abstract

The Polycomb-Group proteins form chromatin complexes that can silence gene expression over large distances. The formation of these complexes at homeotic genes depends on early developmental events but the repressed state is then maintained through many cell divisions. In vivo, complexes formed at one genomic site can interact with those at other sites, suggesting that they, like heterochromatin complexes, affect the folding of chromatin and the organization of chromosomes in the nucleus.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromatin / genetics*
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • Drosophila / genetics*
  • Drosophila Proteins*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Homeodomain Proteins / genetics
  • Insect Proteins / genetics*
  • Models, Genetic
  • Polycomb Repressive Complex 1
  • Repressor Proteins / genetics
  • Transcription Factors*

Substances

  • Chromatin
  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • Drosophila Proteins
  • Homeodomain Proteins
  • Insect Proteins
  • Pc protein, Drosophila
  • Repressor Proteins
  • Transcription Factors
  • Trl protein, Drosophila
  • Ubx protein, Drosophila
  • Polycomb Repressive Complex 1