Choosing the X
Inactivation of one of the two X chromosomes in females is regulated by sequences on the X-chromosome within the X inactivation center (Xic). In the May 10 Science, Percec et al. report the identification of trans-acting autosomal elements involved in choosing the particular X chromosome for inactivation (Science 2002, 296:1136-1139).They performed a phenotype-driven genetic screen for mutations that affect X-chromosome silencing choices in mice: they screened mice from parents exposed to chemic
May 12, 2002
Inactivation of one of the two X chromosomes in females is regulated by sequences on the X-chromosome within the
They performed a phenotype-driven genetic screen for mutations that affect X-chromosome silencing choices in mice: they screened mice from parents exposed to chemical mutagens and looked for changes in X-chromosome inactivation patterns. They then identified two mutant females that transmitted altered X inactivation patterns to early embryos. Both mutations exhibited autosomal dominant modes of inheritance. Percec