Scientists from The University of Manchester have identified an important trigger that dictates how cells change their identity and gain specialized functions. And the research, published in Cell Reports, has brought them a step closer to being able to decode the genome. The scientists have found out how embryonic stem cell fate is controlled which will lead to future research into how cells can be artificially manipulated. Lead author Andrew Sharrocks, Professor in Molecular Biology at The University of Manchester, said: "Understanding how to manipulate cells is crucial in the field of regenerative medicine which aims to repair or replace damaged or diseased human cells or tissues to restore normal function." During the research the team focused on the part of the cellular genome that gives a gene its expression known as the 'enhancer'. This controls the conversion of DNA from genes into useful information that provides the building blocks that determine the structure and function of our cells. Different enhancers are active in different cell types, allowing the production of distinct gene products and hence a range of alternative cell types. In the current study, the team have determined how these enhancers become active. Professor Sharrocks said: "All of … Continue reading →