Nuclear Structure and Gene Expression assimilates the contributions of genome organization and of the components of the nuclear matrix to the control of DNA and RNA synthesis. Nuclear domains which accommodate DNA replication and gene expression are considered in relation to short-term developmental and homeostatic requirements as well as to long-term commitments to phenotypic gene expression in differentiated cells. Consideration is given to the involvement of nuclear structure in gene localization as well as to the targeting and concentration of transcription factors. Aberrations in nuclear architecture associated with and potentially functionally related to pathologies are evaluated. Tumor cells are described from the perspective of the striking modifications in both the composition and organization of nuclear components. Nuclear Structure and Gene Expression presents concepts as well as experimental approaches, which define functionality of nuclear morphology.* Mechanisms of interaction between nuclear structure and genes* Gene expression regulation by elements of the nuclear matrix* How nuclear structure exerts a regulatory effect on other aspects of cell function/physiology

The nucleus guides the life processes of the cell by directing cellular reproduction, differentiation during development, and metabolism. The study of the structure and function of the nucleus along with its genetic material serves as the foundation for the science of genetics. Principles of Nuclear Structure and Function provides a comprehensive overview of the cell nucleus by illustrating the connection between function and the architecture of the nucleus. Richly illustrated throughout, each chapter includes an overview, detailed examples, summary points, references, and callout boxes highlighting methods and cutting-edge technology. The appendix provides a useful list of related Web sites. Some of the subjects reviewed within Principles of Nuclear Structure and Function include: * Nuclear structure, replication, damage, and repair * Regulation of gene expression * The cell cycle * Meiosis and recombination This timely volume presents functional studies within their proper structural context and is an informative profile of the cell and molecular biology in nuclei and chromatin. For those studying cell biology, along with molecular and cell biologists, geneticists, and reproductive biologists, Principles of Nuclear Structure and Function is a definitive resource. Visit www.wiley.com/cook for supplementary information, including additional Web resources, downloadable figures, and discussion questions.

The dynamics of nuclear structures described in this book furnish the basis for a comprehensive understanding of how the higher-order organization and function of the nucleus is established and how it correlates with the expression of a variety of vital activities such as cell proliferation and differentiation. The resulting volume creates an invaluable source of reference for researchers in the field.

Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence. These changes, consisting principally of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, maintain or modulate the initial impact of regulatory factors that recognize and associate with particular genomic sequences. Epigenetic modifications are manifest in all aspects of normal cellular differentiation and function, but they can also have damaging effects that result in pathologies such as cancer. Research is continuously uncovering the role of epigenetics in a variety of human disorders, providing new avenues for therapeutic interventions and advances in regenerative medicine. This book's primary goal is to establish a framework that can be used to understand the basis of epigenetic regulation and to appreciate both its derivation from genetics and interdependence with genetic mechanisms. A further aim is to highlight the role played by the three-dimensional organization of the genetic material itself (the complex of DNA, histones and non-histone proteins referred to as chromatin), and its distribution within a functionally compartmentalized nucleus. This architectural organization of the genome plays a major role in the subsequent retrieval, interpretation, and execution of both genetic and epigenetic information.

An overview of the supergene family made up of those nuclear hormone receptors which recognize thyroid and steroid hormones, vitamen D and retinoic acid and which are characterized by their ability to bind both ligands and the genes which respond to them.

This is the first book to be devoted entirely to the application and development of flow techniques in cytogenetics. It provides comprehensive information on the use of flow cytometry and sorting for chromosome classification and purification. Cytogenetics and molecular biologists will find this book an invaluable reference source. - Practical details for the preparation and analysis of chromosomes using flow cytometry - Flow karyotyping for sensitive rapid analysis of chromosome normality and the detection of aberrant chromosomes - Flow sorting as a source of chromosome-specific DNA for gene mapping and recombinant DNA libraries - Construction and current status of chromosome-specific recombinant DNA libraries