Plasticity of chromatin organization in the plant interphase nucleus: Three-dimensional organization of the interphase nucleus

Genomes are organized as chromatin into complex 3D structures in interphase nuclei, and the relation of these structures to gene function is the subject of much current debate and research. In this chapter, we describe key landmarks that have led to our present understanding of interphase nuclear architecture, with particular emphasis on model and crop plants, such as wheat, rice and Arabidopsis. We discuss the significance of the plasticity of interphase chromosome organization in relation to transcriptional state, epigenetic regulation and environmental influences. We describe our current understanding of in vivo chromatin dynamics down to molecular resolution. Finally, we consider the prospects for using an understanding of chromatin organization and behaviour to improve plant performance in challenging environmental conditions.