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Chapter 17: Problem 6

A number of experiments have demonstrated that areas of the genome that are relatively inert transcriptionally are resistant to DNase I digestion; however, those areas that are transcriptionally active are DNase I sensitive. Describe how DNase I resistance or sensitivity might indicate transcriptional activity.

Short Answer

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Answer: DNase I sensitivity or resistance can be used as an indicator of transcriptional activity because DNase I preferentially cleaves DNA at accessible sites, which are typically associated with transcriptionally active regions. In transcriptionally active regions, the DNA is more accessible and sensitive to DNase I digestion, while transcriptionally inert regions are less accessible and resistant to DNase I. By examining the degree of DNase I digestion in specific genomic regions, scientists can infer the transcriptional activity occurring in those areas.

Step by step solution

01

Introduce DNase I

DNase I is an enzyme that cleaves DNA at specific locations, preferentially at sites where the DNA structure is relaxed or more accessible. This accessibility is generally associated with regions of the genome that are transcriptionally active.
02

Define transcriptionally active and inert regions

Transcriptionally active regions are parts of the genome where RNA is being synthesized from DNA (i.e., where genes are being expressed), whereas transcriptionally inert regions are areas where there is little to no gene expression happening.
03

Explain DNase I sensitivity in transcriptionally active regions

In transcriptionally active regions, the DNA is more "open" or accessible because the transcription machinery, including RNA polymerase, must bind to initiate transcription. As a result, these regions are more sensitive to DNase I digestion since the enzyme can easily access and cleave the DNA.
04

Explain DNase I resistance in transcriptionally inert regions

On the other hand, transcriptionally inert regions are tightly packed and inaccessible, which makes it difficult for both the transcription machinery and DNase I to access the DNA. Consequently, these regions are more resistant to DNase I digestion.
05

Conclude the relationship between DNase I sensitivity/resistance and transcriptional activity

In summary, DNase I sensitivity or resistance can be used as an indicator of transcriptional activity. Transcriptionally active regions are more accessible and therefore sensitive to DNase I digestion, while transcriptionally inert regions are less accessible and resistant to DNase I. By examining the degree of DNase I digestion in particular genomic regions, scientists can infer the transcriptional activity taking place in those areas.

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