Dynamics of chromatin, proteins, and bodies within the cell nucleus

Abstract

A new and still evolving paradigm of a highly dynamic nucleus has emerged in recent years. This paradigm includes an inherently high turnover rate of histone and non-histone protein modifications, targeted turnover and/or displacement of 'stable' core histone proteins, constant flux of macromolecules through chromosomes and nuclear bodies, including transcription factors and co-activators, and an energy-dependent facilitation of nuclear-protein complex formation and disassembly. Also included are fast, local movements of chromosomes, together with slower but long-range movements of chromosomes and nuclear bodies.