CTCF shapes chromatin by multiple mechanisms: the impact of 20 years of CTCF research on understanding the workings of chromatin

Chromosoma. 2010 Aug;119(4):351-60. doi: 10.1007/s00412-010-0262-0. Epub 2010 Feb 20.

Abstract

More than 10(9) base pairs of the genome in higher eucaryotes are positioned in the interphase nucleus such that gene activation, gene repression, remote gene regulation by enhancer elements, and reading as well as adjusting epigenetic marks are possible. One important structural and functional component of chromatin organization is the zinc finger factor CTCF. Two decades of research has advanced the understanding of the fundamental role that CTCF plays in regulating such a vast expanse of DNA.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Binding Sites
  • CCCTC-Binding Factor
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / physiology
  • Cell Nucleus / physiology
  • Chromatin / chemistry
  • Chromatin / physiology*
  • Chromatin / ultrastructure
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone / physiology
  • Chromosomes / physiology
  • Chromosomes, Human / physiology
  • Cohesins
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / physiology
  • Enhancer Elements, Genetic
  • Genomic Imprinting
  • Humans
  • Nucleosomes / physiology*
  • Repressor Proteins / physiology*
  • X Chromosome Inactivation
  • Zinc Fingers / physiology

Substances

  • CCCTC-Binding Factor
  • CTCF protein, human
  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • Chromatin
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • Nucleosomes
  • Repressor Proteins