• Wicky Collaud Chantal

• Wicky Collaud Chantal

DNA associated processes, such transcription, replication, recombination, but also chromosome pairing during meiosis occur in the context of the highly organized cell nucleus. Several structural elements of the nucleus such as the nuclear lamina or special nuclear compartments are known to regulate these processes. Changes in the nuclear organization are accompanying development and differentiation processes and defects in the nuclear architecture are known to be responsible for several human diseases. This course will focus on the elements that are shaping the nuclear architecture and their role in the activity of the genome, such as transcription, replication and DNA recombination. Since meiotic nuclei are the home of a beautiful chromosome choreography and an intense nuclear reorganisation, this course will also include an overview of the mechanisms underlying these processes. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying nuclear organisation and chromosome dynamics is essential for human health and fertility.

Key concepts of the lecture are nuclear architecture, chromatin domains, nuclear compartment, chromosome territories and pairing, recombination and genome stability.

At the end of this course, the student has an overview of the nuclear organization and its role in the regulation of processes associated with the DNA. He/she is able to use this knowledge to read and analyse the specialized literature on the topic and to appreciate the research of a lab working on nuclear architecture and chromosome dynamics.)

Written exam (30 min.) during the semester. One mark