Mechanisms of X-chromosome inactivation

Front Biosci. 2006 Jan 1:11:852-66. doi: 10.2741/1842.

Abstract

Mammalian X-chromosome inactivation is an impressive example of epigenetic gene regulation, whereby the majority of genes on the approximately 160 Mb X chromosome are silenced in a strictly cis-limited fashion. In this review we will discuss the important players involved in the silencing process. The process is initiated by transcription and cis-localization of the non-coding XIST RNA, which then recruits many of the epigenetic features generally associated with heterochromatin, including histone modifications, histone variants and DNA methylation.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromosomes, Human, X*
  • DNA Methylation
  • Dosage Compensation, Genetic
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Gene Silencing
  • Heterochromatin / metabolism
  • Histones / chemistry
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Models, Biological
  • Models, Genetic
  • RNA, Untranslated / genetics
  • Transcription Factors
  • Transcription, Genetic
  • X Chromosome Inactivation*

Substances

  • Heterochromatin
  • Histones
  • RNA, Untranslated
  • Transcription Factors