Illuminating xist

The Central Dogma proposed that RNA, encoded by DNA in the genome, acts as the template used by cells for protein production. The simplicity of RNA as a discrete mediator of information has subsequently been challenged by the discovery of non-protein-coding RNAs. Understanding of this intricate new field has been fuelled by the development of new research techniques. In this article, we consider how recent advances in microscopy have added to our current understanding of the non-coding RNA Xist (X-inactive specific transcript).