Polymer models reveal how chromatin modification can modulate force at the kinetochore

Abstract

Molecular crowding of DNA loops exerts a radial force on the kinetochore. Previous observations of the kinetochore and pericentric cohesin revealed a paradox upon spindle perturbation. Using simulations of the thermodynamics of DNA, we resolve the experimental results and provide evidence for mechanical feedback between chromatin and the kinetochore.