In a groundbreaking study, scientists have discovered a way to manipulate the very fabric of life by using light to reshape DNA strands. This innovative approach provides new insights into the material properties of chromosomes, unlocking potential advancements in understanding gene expression and developing treatments for genetic diseases.
Chromatin, the material that makes up chromosomes, is a complex structure where long strands of DNA are wrapped tightly around proteins. Despite its compact nature, chromatin must unfurl in certain regions to allow cells to access and replicate genetic information.
Some areas remain rigid and coiled, silencing genes, while others are flexible and accessible, facilitating gene expression. This duality has led scientists to question whether chromatin behaves like a solid, a liquid, or a hybrid of both.