MIT researchers have unveiled a breakthrough technique for mapping the 3D structure of the human genome, achieving 100 times higher resolution than previous methods. This new approach, known as Region Capture Micro-C (RCMC), significantly reduces the cost of generating detailed 3D genome maps, focusing on specific genome segments. By revealing previously unseen interactions between enhancers and promoters—elements that regulate gene expression—this technique provides insights into genetic diseases and potential treatment avenues.
The research demonstrates that a large portion of the genome consists of regulatory regions influencing gene activity, often located far from their target genes. RCMC allows scientists to explore these intricate interactions in unprecedented detail, generating high-resolution maps affordably. The researchers found that genes interact with numerous regulatory elements, highlighting a complex web of genetic regulation.
This advancement builds upon earlier work like Hi-C and Micro-C but offers targeted sequencing to reduce costs and enhance resolution. The team is working with partners to apply these findings to specific genomic regions associated with disease, promising to deepen our understanding of gene regulation and its implications for health. The research is published in the journal Nature Genetics.
