The single X chromosome of male fruit flies can be just as active as the two X chromosomes of females thanks to two sticky molecules

Researchers have discovered how the MSL complex responsible for dosage compensation can distinguish the X chromosome from autosomes in flies. A lab used a unique research approach to determine the minimal molecular components essential for recognizing the X chromosome. The study shows that the MSL2 protein and the roX RNA form a gel which 'attaches' the MSL complex to the X chromosome.