Xin-Jian He: Chromatin-associated protein complexes in Arabidopsis

Gene transcription is regulated by both transcription factors and alterations in chromatin states. Chromatin states are affected by diverse mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling. Our studies in Arabidopsis thaliana have identified numerous chromatin-associated protein complexes involved in regulating DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling. The results indicate that many of these complexes contain both conserved and plant-specific subunits, suggesting that plant chromatin-associated complexes have developed unique features compared to those in other eukaryotes. These findings lay a foundation for investigating how chromatin collaborates with transcription factors to regulate gene expression during development, hormone signaling, and stress responses.