Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) is a laboratory technique used to study the interactions between proteins and DNA within chromatin. It allows researchers to identify specific regions of the genome where proteins, such as transcription factors, bind to DNA. This is important for understanding gene regulation and how genes are turned on or off in different cells. The process involves cross-linking proteins to DNA, shearing the chromatin into smaller fragments, and then using antibodies to isolate the protein of interest along with its bound DNA. After reversing the cross-links, the DNA can be analyzed to determine which genes are regulated by the protein, providing insights into cellular functions and processes.