Transcriptional enhancers: Transcription, function and flexibility

Transcription. 2016;7(1):26-31. doi: 10.1080/21541264.2015.1128517.

Abstract

Active transcriptional enhancers are often transcribed to eRNAs, whose changing levels mirror those of the target gene mRNA. We discuss some of the reported functions of these eRNAs and their likely diversity to allow utilization of distinct cis regulatory regions to enhance transcription in diverse developmental and cellular contexts.

Keywords: chromatin; eRNA; enhancer; histone modification; non-coding RNA; promoter; transcription.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Enhancer Elements, Genetic*
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Methylation
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic
  • RNA / chemistry*
  • RNA / genetics
  • Transcription Initiation Site
  • Transcription, Genetic*

Substances

  • Histones
  • RNA