Sequence reliance of the Drosophila context-dependent transcription factor CLAMP.

Despite binding similar cis elements in multiple locations, a single transcription factor (TF) often performs context-dependent functions at different loci. How factors integrate cis sequence and genomic context is still poorly understood and has implications for off-target effects in genetic engineering. The Drosophila context-dependent TF chromatin-linked adaptor for male-specific lethal proteins (CLAMP) targets similar GA-rich cis elements on the X-chromosome and at the histone gene locus but recruits very different, locus-specific factors.

A cost-free CURE: using bioinformatics to identify DNA-binding factors at a specific genomic locus.

Research experiences provide diverse benefits for undergraduates. Many academic institutions have adopted course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) to improve student access to research opportunities. However, potential instructors of a CURE might still face financial or practical hurdles that prevent implementation.

Sequence reliance of a context-dependent transcription factor.

Despite binding similar elements in multiple locations, a single transcription factor often performs context-dependent functions at different loci. How factors integrate sequence and genomic context is still poorly understood and has implications for off-target effects in genetic engineering. The context-dependent transcription factor CLAMP targets similar GA-rich elements on the X-chromosome and at the histone gene locus but recruits very different, loci-specific factors.

A bioinformatics screen reveals Hox and chromatin remodeling factors at the histone locus.

Cells orchestrate histone biogenesis with strict temporal and quantitative control. To efficiently regulate histone biogenesis, the repetitive replication-dependent histone genes are arrayed and clustered at a single locus. Regulatory factors concentrate in a nuclear body known as the histone locus body (HLB), which forms around the locus.