Polymorphism of simple sequence repeats may quantitatively regulate gene transcription

The degree of polymorphism, i.e., DNA sequence divergence, of short AT-rich tandemly arranged simple sequence repeats at or near promoters and 5′- untranslated regions of mRNA may quantitatively regulate transcription of tissue-specific genes. Less polymorphic repeats allow greater gene expression. Preferential binding of hypophosphorylated H1 histone to these repeats may diminish binding of transcription factors. Preferential binding of...