Innovation - Novel ChIP-based strategies to uncover transcription factor target genes in the immune system

Transcription factors can have a marked effect on the fate of a cell by establishing the gene expression patterns that determine cellular function. Therefore, a great deal of effort has been invested in identifying and understanding the individual transcription factors that influence key activities. New strategies to identify transcription factor target genes based on their ability to bind to DNA in the nuclear environment have recently been developed, providing an opportunity to address many questions concerning the function of transcription factors. This article discusses the advantages and applications for these new strategies in reference to the developing immune response.