Three-dimensional chromatin organization in brain function and dysfunction

Abstract

The three-dimensional (3D) organization of chromatin within the nucleus is now recognized as a bona fide epigenetic property influencing genome function, replication, and maintenance. In the recent years, several studies have revealed how 3D chromatin organization is associated with brain function and its emerging role in disorders of the brain. 3D chromatin organization plays a crucial role in the development of different cell types of the nervous system and some neuronal cell types have adapted unique modifications to this organization that deviates from all other cell types. In post-mitotic neurons, dynamic changes in chromatin interactions in response to neuronal activity underlie learning and memory formation. Finally, new evidence directly links 3D chromatin organization to several disorders of the brain. These recent findings position 3D chromatin organization as a fundamental regulatory mechanism poised to reveal the etiology of brain function and dysfunctions.