Interplay between epigenome and 3D chromatin structure.

Abstract

Epigenetic mechanisms, primarily mediated through histone and DNA modifications, play a pivotal role in orchestrating the functional identity of a cell and its response to environmental cues. Similarly, the spatial arrangement of chromatin within the three-dimensional (3D) nucleus has been recognized as a significant factor influencing genomic function. Investigating the relationship between epigenetic regulation and 3D chromatin structure has revealed correlation and causality between these processes, from the global alignment of average chromatin structure with chromatin marks to the nuanced correlations at smaller scales. This review aims to dissect the biological significance and the interplay between the epigenome and 3D chromatin structure, while also exploring the underlying molecular mechanisms. By synthesizing insights from both experimental and modeling perspectives, we seek to provide a comprehensive understanding of cellular functions.