RESUMO
The non-random arrangement of chromosomes in the interphase nucleus was observed for the first time in the late XIX century. However, considerable progress in studying chromosome territories became possible only in the end of the XX century mainly due to advances in microscopy and molecular biology. At present, chromosome territories are believed to play an important role in epigenetic regulation of genome activity during various cell processes including but not limited to cell cycle, differentiation, stress response. 3D structure of genome also plays an important role in pathogenesis of various hereditary diseases and cancer. This article describes main provisions of the chromosome territory theory and current trends toward further development of human genetics based on the new knowledge about the role of chromosome territories.
