Dissertation
Responding to environmental cues: the adaptive qualities of chromatin compaction proteins
Promotor: M. Ubbink, Co-Promotor: R. T. Dame
- Author
- R. A. van der Valk
- Date
- 22 November 2016
- Links
- Thesis in Leiden Repository
The effective volume occupied by the genomes of all forms of life far exceeds that of the cells in which they are contained. Therefore, all organisms have developed mechanisms for compactly folding and functionally organizing their genetic material. H-NS, a bacterial DNA compaction protein, is a prime example of a protein that is functionally modulated in response to environmental cues. These cues are translated into adapted gene expression patterns. We delve into the mechanisms underlying DNA compaction and its adaptation to environmental stimuli and explore the complex and subtle modulation of these diverse, yet difficult-to-study, structures.