METHODS FOR VARIATION OF CHROMATIN CONDENSATION

摘要

The present invention relates to methods for decondensation and/or condensation of chromatin or chromosomes through the addition of substances to condensed or decondensed chromatin/chromosomes respectively. In particular, the invention relates to a method for decondensing and subsequently optionally recondensing chromatin in cells at the interphase stage of the cell cycle and to a method for condensing chromatin/chromosomes following disruption of sperm. The present invention also relates to substances for the decondensation and/or condensation of chromatin/chromosomes and to kits comprising said substances, as well as to the use of these substances in chromatin/chromosome analysis, reproduction in particular fertility assessment, the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, assisted conception either in the clinic or naturally and contraception. A particular factor identified is a decondensation factor which has a molecular weight of 20 kDa and which is obtainable from Hela cells.