It’s not over until the RNA sings…

Epigenetic regulation is accomplished by a series of interdependent systems. It’s overall effect on gene expression is often compared to a musical composition. Today I’m thinking of opera in particular…since I’m proud to say that my uncle Robert Aldridge just won a Grammy for best contemporary classical composition. Bravo Uncle Bob! So you probably know the silly old saying, “It’s not over till the fat lady sings”, right? There are numerous well studied roles in the epigenetic opera….modifications of DNA, chromatin and histones, enzymes activities like DNA and protein methyltransferase, etc….but today let’s think of RNA expression as the grand finale. Once a gene has been physically exposed through modifications to chromatin and histone structural proteins, and expression takes place…those … Continue reading →