Genomic approach to the study of chromatin and transcription

The eukaryotic cell has developed complex regulatory circuitry to ensure proper gene expression. An important aspect of this regulation involves the modulation of the basal transcriptional machinery as well as nucleosomal chromatin substrates. Both covalent histone modification and the physical movement or positioning of nucleosomes can impart regulatory functions on transcription. This work describes genomic approaches to study chromatin modification and how it affects transcription in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Specifically, we define the in vivo DNA targets of the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeler RSC (Remodels the Structure of Chromatin). We also examine the recruitment and regulation of the basal machinery for RNA polymerase III. Finally, we provide evidence for novel transcriptional roles for the histone acetyltransferase complexes SAGA (Spt-Ada-Gcn5-Acetyltransferase) and Elongator. These studies have provided a better understanding of the relationships between chromatin and gene regulation.