The paper explores how seemingly disordered protein domains, which contain multiple amino acid repeat sequences, can provide stability and structure during gene regulation. Gene expression - specifically the process of transcription - is tightly regulated to ensure that the right gene is activated in the right cell at the right time. This regulation depends on the interaction between transcription factors (proteins that control gene expression) and specific DNA sequences.
Datta’s research focuses on how these interactions are orchestrated during embryonic and retinal development. While much is known about the protein domains of transcription factors that physically bind to DNA, the role of protein sequences that do not directly interact with DNA remains poorly understood. These sequences often appear disordered until they engage with other cellular components during transcription.
In their paper, Datta and her collaborator, Pinar Onal, discuss what is currently known about these disordered protein domains and highlight key questions that remain unanswered, shedding light on their potential contributions to transcriptional regulation.
