Researchers using the Pico-C technology mapped the early 3D folding of the fruit fly genome, revealing a modular, scaffolded architecture that positions regulatory elements for activation later in development.

A companion Nature Cell Biology study extends the relevance to humans, showing that when the genome’s 3D architectural anchors are removed, cells misinterpret this as a viral attack, triggering innate immune responses and inflammation.

The research was funded by the Medical Research Council and the Academy of Medical Sciences through AMS Professorships.

A Nature Genetics study shows the genome already exhibits a structured 3D organization before zygotic genome activation, challenging the view of a chaotic pre-activation genome.

Together, the studies imply that proper genome architecture is established at the start of life and its collapse can provoke harmful immune activation, underscoring importance for development and health.

The Pico-C method requires far less material than standard techniques, enabling precise investigation of how DNA folding governs gene regulation and how disruptions may lead to disease.