Diagram of gene transcription (IMAGE)
Caption
This diagram shows how tethering elements and insulators work together to ensure proper gene activity, or transcription. Gene 1 is activated by a regulatory element (“enhancer”) located a large distance away from it, on the far side of gene 2. Tethering elements bring together gene 1 and its enhancer by forming a loop, facilitating the activation of the gene at the appropriate time. Meanwhile, insulators form a barrier between gene 1 and gene 2, precluding their respective sets of regulatory elements from interfering with one another. Together, these two mechanisms ensure the efficiency and specificity of long-range transcriptional regulation.
Credit
Philippe Batut, Princeton University
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