In his Part 2, Chang introduces long noncoding RNAs, or lncRNAs. As their name suggests, lncRNAs are not translated into proteins, and initially their functions were poorly understood. Chang’s group has developed technologies to better understand the function of lncRNAs. For example, his lab characterized the protein partners that interact with Xist, a canonical lncRNA that mediates X chromosome inactivation. They found that the protein Spen is necessary for X chromosome silencing. Interestingly, Spen has likely been co-opted by mammalian cells to inactivate the X chromosome via viral mimicry.
View the full talk with additional resources on our website
Epigenomics and the Role of Long Non-coding RNAs
Dr. Howard Chang describes epigenomic approaches pioneered by his lab and the role of long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in regulating gene expression. (Talk recorded in July 2019)
- Part 1: Epigenomic TechnologiesAudience:
- Researcher
- Educators
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 00:39:30 - Part 2: LncRNA Function at the RNA Level: XistAudience:
- Researcher
- Educators
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 00:24:53 - Part 3: LncRNA Function at the DNA Level: PVT1Audience:
- Researcher
- Educators
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 00:23:55