Genomic and Epigenomic Plasticity in the Hypoxic Environment

Our genome has evolved a complex network of information designed to precisely regulate gene transcription. Commonly known as cis-regulatory elements, they represent those parts of DNA that are highly sensitive to environmental changes in the form of associated multi-protein complexes. Oxygen levels are an important environmental factor influencing a range of cellular activities, including cell survival. To respond to changes in oxygen levels, cells have developed an efficient and precise system for regulating gene expression. Cis-regulatory elements are the key hubs of this response and control the activation of the transcriptional response to hypoxia. In this review, we will discuss the complex genomic and epigenomic structures that are modulated by oxygen and control the activity of cis-regulatory elements and the adaptations to variations in O2 availability.