IL PUNTO DI VISTA DI UN REGOLATORE EPIGENETICO DELL'ESPRESSIONE GENICA, COMUNE A UOMO E PIANTE

The regulation of gene expression is at the heart of all the fundamental processes of living organisms. It is controlled by Transcriptional Factors which, by binding to specific DNA sequences of genomes, recruit protein machineries that modify the organization of chromatin (epigenetics). Our studies are focused on the NF-Y trimeric transcription factor, a crucial activator of gene expression in all eukaryotes. Two subunits have a structure similar to histones, the basic elements of chromatin, the third -NF-YA- confers specificity to the CCAAT box. I will illustrate how regulation of NF-Y complexes is important for two completely different gene expression systems: the neoplastic transformation of human cells, and the development of flowers in plants.