Abstract
Xist long non-coding RNA induces heterochromatinization of the X-chromosome by accumulating in large ribonucleoprotein assemblies. We recently suggested that Xist stabilises X chromosome inactivation by recruiting RNA-binding proteins by a mechanism of liquid-liquid phase separation. We provided evidence that Xist forms ribonucleoprotein condensates that are similar in size, shape and protein composition to paraspeckles and stress granules. To test our hypothesis we aim to perturb the system by reducing crucial Xist protein-partners and making selected Xist deletions. Using data from these experiments coupled to super-resolution imaging, we aim to construct solid mathematical modellings of granule formation for wider-scope applications.
References
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