Using the model organism Drosophila melanogaster we study the intersection of DNA replication and heterochromatic silencing. DNA replication is an essential process that must be carried out with high fidelity. Dire consequences result when this process fails to faithfully duplicate DNA both with respect to sequence and at the right time during the cell cycle.
The suite of proteins involved in DNA replication do not operate on a naked DNA substrate but rather must perform in the context of the higher order structure of chromatin. Re-establishment of chromatin states during or right after DNA replication is critical for the organism. High fidelity of this process ensures that the transcriptional states of numerous genes are maintained. In addition the modulation of these states can contribute to the differentiation and development of tissues within the body
