Chromatin profiling in model organisms

The correct control of gene expression is essential for the proper development of organisms. Abnormal expression of genes can lead to cancerous growth and certain diseases. To understand how gene expression is controlled on a genome-wide scale, methods for assaying transcription factor binding sites are required. There are two prevailing techniques for mapping protein-chromatin interactions, ChIP (chromatin immunoprecipitation) and DamID (DNA adenine methyltransferase identification). Both of these methods, when combined with microarray technology, can provide powerful insights into transcription factor function, higher order chromatin structure and gene regulatory networks. In vivo chromatin profiling studies are now being performed on model organisms, targeting specific tissues to help generate more accurate maps of protein-DNA interactions.