Chromosomal DNA in higher eukaryotes is spatially organized into loops by periodic attachment to the nuclear matrix at its base via a specific matrix attachment region (MAR). In order to study the nature of DNA sequences that affixed the loops to the nuclear matrix, we have cloned the MAR DNA from bovine lactating mammary tissues. In vitro binding assay showed that the cloned fragments could be co-complexed with nuclear matrix proteins to form insoluble complex easily removed by centrifugation. Sequences of the two chosen MAR loci are composed of TG-, CA- and GA- blocks, as well as the ATTA motifs. Both the MAR loci show numerous replication/transcription factor binding sites, enhancer motifs, several perfect or imperfect inverted repeats, and sequences sharing the common features of the potential DNA bending core sequence. The possibility that a combination of different elements in the same DNA sequence may function as either positive or negative regulatory elements in controlling a variety of cellular and developmental processes is discussed.