Chromosome structure inspires intricate works of art
A collaboration between a Virginia Tech professor of entomology, an art professor and a professor of computer science working in biophysics has resulted in the creation of amazing works of art that can help researchers and the public better understand the function of DNA and chromosomes in several important cellular processes.
Fuelled by the integration of the arts, this work is made possible through the Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology (ICAT), which supports Virginia Tech students and faculty working at the intersection of science, engineering, arts and design to find innovative solutions to complex problems.
Chromatin is a substance that constitutes chromosomes and is responsible for the accumulation of several feet of DNA within a nucleus of only a few micrometers, while protecting the structure and sequence of the DNA. The three-dimensional organization of chromatin plays a central role in many key cellular processes, including DNA replication, repair and transcription, and can also signal the progression of cancer and other diseases.
With so much DNA compacted in such a small space, density alone makes it difficult for researchers to create computer models using current standard visualization tools that detail the DNA hierarchy. New tools and concepts, supported by powerful calculations, are needed to create interactive, information-rich visualizations that will help researchers better understand the complexity and function of DNA and chromosomes.
"A visual representation of chromatin in a computer model is important to better understand how DNA is organized and functions within the cell nucleus. Computer models allow us to focus on visualizing the most relevant information within a very complex chromatin organization," said Igor Sharakhov, researcher and professor of entomology at the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences. "For example, we may choose to visualize how the interaction between chromosome domains is associated with changes in gene expression. In addition, a structural hierarchy of chromatin can be revealed within the same visualization tool, while different experimental methods are needed to study each of these structural levels."
Sharakhov and Alexey Onufriev, Professor of Computer Science at the College of Engineering, are using experimental data and computer models of chromosome organization in fruit flies and mosquitoes to create a prototype tool that allows chromatin to be visualized at various scales, revealing a fractal architecture filled with complex models.
"The complexity of DNA compaction within the cell nucleus results in multiple challenges in modelling the structure and dynamics of corresponding structural forms, including fractals," explains Onufriev.
It is these geometric complexities that inspire Eric Standley, Associate Professor of Studio Art at Virginia Tech's College of Architecture and Urban Studies, to create a series of layered artefacts cut out on paper that visually represent the fundamental elements of life. More simply, this work translates the language of 3D chromosome organization into the language of art.
"It sounds like the beginning of a joke: what do an artist, an entomologist and a biophysicist have in common," says Standley. "When I first met Igor and Alexey, we immediately recognized that our independent research objectives all had complexities that could not be expressed in a traditional way. It was clear from the beginning of the project that my role would not be that of illustrator, but that of artist. To discover and develop creative influences from their research to inform my own, it would require a unique relationship - a relationship that can only occur in the academic space that allows theories, speculation and risks. Working with this team has changed my vision of working in the studio and life in general."
These unique works of art are accessible representations of the mathematical and visual complexity of the DNA packaging phenomenon. Mr. Standley's work will be presented in museums and art galleries for audiences of all ages, bringing science out of the laboratory and attracting public attention. Some of his work has recently been published in "ICAT: Open (at the) Source", an exhibition at the Moss Arts Center that encouraged visitors to explore and experience research and innovation at ICAT.
