New insights into promoter-enhancer communication mechanisms revealed by dynamic single-molecule imaging

Biochem Soc Trans. 2021 Jun 30;49(3):1299-1309. doi: 10.1042/BST20200963.

Abstract

Establishing cell-type-specific gene expression programs relies on the action of distal enhancers, cis-regulatory elements that can activate target genes over large genomic distances - up to Mega-bases away. How distal enhancers physically relay regulatory information to target promoters has remained a mystery. Here, we review the latest developments and insights into promoter-enhancer communication mechanisms revealed by live-cell, real-time single-molecule imaging approaches.

Keywords: enhancers; genome organization; optical nanoscopy; single-molecule approaches; transcription.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Binding Sites / genetics
  • Enhancer Elements, Genetic / genetics*
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic / genetics*
  • Protein Binding
  • Single Molecule Imaging / methods*
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism*
  • Transcription, Genetic*

Substances

  • Transcription Factors