Buffering: a Possible Passive-homeostasis Role for Redundant DNA

A new general role for redundant (apparently non-coding) DNA is speculated: buffering the effect of fluctuations in intra-cellular solute composition on chromatin condensation state in its condensed form and on binding of DNA-tropic proteins and other ligands in its decondensed form. The “buffering” DNA performing such passive-homeostasis (energy-independent) function, can provide selective advantage in ecological niches with a low energy supply.