Structure, function, and evolution of the metal-binding domain in the nucleosome.

ABSTRACT

The eukaryotic nucleosome, the basic unit of chromatin, is thermodynamically stable and plays critical roles in the cell, including the maintenance of DNA topology and regulation of gene expression. At its C2 axis of symmetry, the nucleosome exhibits a domain that can coordinate divalent metal ions. This article discusses the roles of the metal-binding domain in the nucleosome structure, function, and evolution.