When a cell divides to make new cells, it needs to copy its DNA so that each new cell has the same genetic information. This process is called DNA replication. A study led by Dr Derrick Ong from N2CR discovered that a protein called PHF2 helps with this process, especially in brain stem cells. Contrary to the established role of PHF2 in affecting gene expression, the research team unexpectedly found that PHF2 works with specific proteins to help fold DNA into domains and loops, thereby ensuring proper DNA replication. This study has advanced our understanding of the link between DNA folding and replication, which may become aberrant in diseases like neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer.

Read more: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38808662/#:~:text=Here%2C%20we%20discover%20that%20the,dormant%20replication%20origins%20in%20NSC.