The spread of chemical biology into chromatin

Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying chromatin regulation, the complexity of which seems to deepen with each passing year, requires a multidisciplinary approach. While many different tools have been brought to bear in this area, here we focus on those that have emerged from the field of chemical biology. We discuss methods that allow the generation of what is now commonly referred to as “designer chromatin,” a term that was coined by the late C. David (Dave) Allis. Among Dave's many talents was a remarkable ability to “brand” a nascent area (or concept) such that it was immediately relatable to the broader field. This also had the entirely intentional effect of drawing more people into the area, something that as this brief review attempts to convey has certainly happened when it comes to getting chemists involved in chromatin research.