Objective The correct temporal and spatial patterns of gene expression of Hox genes are necessary for patterning of the developing embryo. Intriguingly, the time and place of Hox gene expression is collinear with the order of the genes on the chromosome. However, t he molecular mechanisms underlying this exquisite gene regulation are poorly understood. In cell culture, the sequential activation of mouse HoxB genes correlates with a visible unfolding of chromatin structure, and a re-localisation of active genes within the nucleus. I want to understand the mechanisms that underpin these large-scale changes in chromatin and nuclear organisation, by combining fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) with mouse models of Hox gene regulation. To do this I will firstly identify cis-acting genomic elements that regulate the nuclear reorganisation of HoxB. I also propose to ask whether other Hox clusters behave similarly, by analysing the nuclear behaviour of HoxD in vivo, in the embryo. These experiments should provide mechanistic insight into colinear gene expression. Fields of science natural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistryalkaline earth metalsnatural sciencesbiological sciencesgeneticschromosomesmedical and health sciencesclinical medicineembryology Keywords Gene Gene expression expression Programme(s) FP6-MOBILITY - Human resources and Mobility in the specific programme for research, technological development and demonstration "Structuring the European Research Area" under the Sixth Framework Programme 2002-2006 Topic(s) MOBILITY-2.1 - Marie Curie Intra-European Fellowships (EIF) Call for proposal FP6-2004-MOBILITY-5 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme EIF - Marie Curie actions-Intra-European Fellowships Coordinator MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL EU contribution No data Address 20 Park Crescent LONDON United Kingdom See on map Links Website Opens in new window Total cost No data
