Abstract
Animal genomes are packaged into chromatin, a highly dynamic macromolecular structure of DNA and histone proteins organised into nucleosomes. This accommodates packaging of lengthy genomic sequences within the physical confines of the nucleus while also enabling precise regulation of access to genetic information. However, histones existed before chromatin and have lesser-known functions beyond genome regulation. Most notably, histones are potent antimicrobial agents, and the release of chromatin to the extracellular space is a defence mechanism nearly as ancient and widespread as chromatin itself. Histone sequences have changed very little throughout evolution, suggesting the possibility that some of their 'non-canonical' functions are at play in parallel or in concert with their genome regulatory functions. In this Review, we take an evolutionary perspective of histone, nuclear chromatin and extracellular chromatin biology and describe the known extranuclear and extracellular functions of histones. We detail molecular mechanisms of chromatin release and extracellular chromatin sensing, and we discuss their roles in physiology and disease. Finally, we present evidence and give a perspective on the potential of extracellular histones to act as bioactive, cell modulatory factors.