Females have two X chromosomes. But they do not need twice as many copies of the genes encoded on the X chromosome as males and so must deactivate one of the two chromosomes. New research describes how cells orchestrate this chromosomal silencing. The findings could lead to relief for the many thousands of people living with diseases caused by mutations on the X chromosome.

From Jeannie Lee and colleagues. Co-first authors Mingrui Ding and Danni Wang. Read more at the Harvard Gazette.