During development, scores of molecular signals prod cells to take on specialized identities and functions. In response to some of these signals, the cellular machinery awakens specific genes called ‘immediate early genes’ within minutes. The Rijli group has now identified a unique molecular signature that keeps immediate early genes quiet yet poised for rapid activation. Working out how immediate early genes are expressed at the right level in response to appropriate signals has important implications for our understanding of development, establishment of cell identity, and other key processes such as learning and memory formation in the brain.
Click here for original story, New-found molecular signature keeps key genes ready for action
Source: Phys.org