A Phase Separation Model for Transcriptional Control

Abstract

Phase-separated multi-molecular assemblies provide a general regulatory mechanism to compartmentalize biochemical reactions within cells. We propose that a phase separation model explains established and recently described features of transcriptional control. These features include the formation of super-enhancers, the sensitivity of super-enhancers to perturbation, the transcriptional bursting patterns of enhancers, and the ability of an enhancer to produce simultaneous activation at multiple genes. This model provides a conceptual framework to further explore principles of gene control in mammals. Keywords: super-enhancer; enhancer; phase separation; transcription; nuclear body; gene control; bursting; transcriptional burst; co-operativity