Chromatin and Epigenetics 1400-235CHiE
1. The Structure and Function of Chromatin
Discover how chromatin's intricate organization influences which genes are active and which remain silent. Learn why this system is pivotal for life as we know it.
2. The Evolution of Core Histones
Uncover the story of histones, the proteins that form the backbone of chromatin. How have they evolved to meet the needs of complex organisms?
3. Histone Composition and Modifications
Dive into the molecular details of histones and their chemical modifications. Understand how these tiny changes can flip genetic switches and control cellular fate.
4. Histone Variants
Learn how specialized histone types bring unique functions to specific cellular processes, adding layers of complexity to chromatin regulation.
5. DNA Methylation
Explore this key epigenetic mark that leaves an indelible impact on gene expression and organismal development.
6. Tools of Discovery: Chromatin Research Methods
Gain hands-on insight into cutting-edge techniques for studying chromatin, from ChIP-seq to Hi-C mapping, and see how these tools are revolutionizing our understanding of the genome.
7. Linker Histones and Their Roles
Meet the lesser-known histone players and learn how they stabilize chromatin's structure while modulating gene accessibility.
8. Nucleosome Organization and Higher-Order Structures
Delve into the mesmerizing architecture of chromatin, from nucleosomes to higher-order folds that dictate the three-dimensional genome.
9. Chromatin Remodeling
Watch as molecular machines reshape chromatin to facilitate processes like replication, repair, and transcription.
10. Non-Coding RNAs in Chromatin Regulation
Explore the surprising roles of non-coding RNAs in fine-tuning chromatin structure and gene activity.
11. Epigenetic Gene Silencing and Polycomb Proteins
Discover how Polycomb complexes act as genetic gatekeepers, enforcing developmental programs and maintaining cellular identity.
12. Epigenetic Regulation in Plants and Animals
Learn how epigenetic marks guide development, helping organisms respond to their environment and adapt across generations.
13. Environmental Impacts: Diet, Stress, and Chromatin
Investigate how factors like nutrition, toxins, and stress influence chromatin and gene regulation, with implications for health and disease.
14. Intergenerational Inheritance
Is it possible for epigenetic changes to pass through generations? Uncover the science behind this groundbreaking concept.
15. Chromatin and Cancer: Oncohistones, DNA/RNA/histones modifications and Epigenetic Therapies
Understand how chromatin malfunctions can lead to cancer and how "epigenetic drugs" are offering hope for treatment. Explore the emerging field and its role in driving malignancies
Main fields of studies for MISMaP
biotechnology
Type of course
Mode
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Students will improve their knowledge about chromatin-based mechanisms of gene regulation and epigenetic phenomena.
Assessment criteria
Exam in a written form
Practical placement
n/a
Bibliography
1. Epigenetics. C. David Allis, Thomas Jenuwein, Danny Reinberg. CSHL Press,
2. Fundamental Molecular Biology. Lizabeth A. Allison. Wiley,
3. Recent articles from scientific journals provided by lecturers.
Additional information
Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: