Comprehensive, high resolution analysis of cis-acting regulatory networks at the alpha globin locus (array)

We have combined the 4C chromosome conformation capture protocol with high throughput, genome-wide sequence analysis to characterise in full a cis-acting regulatory network at a single locus. In contrast to methods which identify large interacting regions (10-1000kb), the 4C approach provides a comprehensive, high resolution analysis of a specific locus with the aim of defining, in detail, all cis- regulatory elements controlling a single gene or gene cluster. Using the human α-globin locus as a model we detected all known local and long-range interactions with this gene cluster. In addition we identified two interactions with genes located 300 kb (NME4) and 625 kb (FAM173a) from the α-globin cluster. Using paired-end sequencing it was possible for the first time to identify interactions between specific subsets of cis-regulatory elements in populations of cells and within individual cells. Two biological replicates of 4C amplification from the promoters of the human HBA and HBB genes and B-Cell controls. Quality of B-cell material was confirmed using amplification from a CTCF bound region associated with Human Axin Gene.