Selective gene silencing refers to a biological phenomenon where cells inactivate or suppress the expression of one copy of a gene inherited from either parent. This selective inactivation can affect whether the maternal or paternal gene copy is used by the cell.
Key Features:
- Gene Expression Control: Unlike the traditional understanding where both parental gene copies contribute equally, selective silencing results in the cell favoring one copy over the other.
- Cell-Type Specific: The phenomenon can vary between different types of cells, such as immune cells versus kidney cells.
- Dynamic Nature: Selective silencing may change over time or in response to environmental triggers.
Research Overview
- Columbia University researchers discovered that cells can selectively inactivate one parent’s copy of a gene, challenging traditional genetics principles.
- Study focused on immune cells, revealing selective inactivation in approximately 1 in every 20 active genes.
- Published in Nature on January 1, 2025.
Implications of the Discovery
- Explains why some individuals with disease-causing mutations remain symptom-free.
- Could elucidate variable disease severity in genetic disorders, such as lupus or cancer.
- Suggests DNA plasticity varies by cell type and may change over time.
Experimental Evidence
- Families with immune system disorders studied: disease-causing gene copy was more active in symptomatic patients but suppressed in healthy relatives.
- No preference for immune-related genes; phenomenon may extend to other genetic conditions.
Potential Clinical Applications
- Introduction of “transcriptotype” (gene activity patterns) in diagnosing genetic diseases, alongside genotype analysis.
- Possibility of switching gene expression patterns to suppress undesirable gene copies in future treatments.
Reference: SciTech Daily
