DNA methylation is very important for controlling how genes work. It happens when small groups called methyl groups are added to DNA, mainly on a part called cytosine. This process usually happens at special spots known as CpG dinucleotides.
Here are some key points about DNA methylation:
Turning Off Genes: In human cells, around 70% of the CpG islands (which are special regions in DNA) near gene start areas are methylated. This means that these genes are turned off and can't create their proteins.
Growth Changes: The way DNA is methylated changes as we grow. For example, during the early stages of life, more than 1,000 genes show different methylation patterns. This affects how cells turn into different types.
Cancer Effects: In cancer, the methylation goes wrong. About 40% of genes can become overly methylated, which means they are turned off. This often includes important genes that help stop tumors from growing.
Memory of Methylation: Some of the methylation marks can be passed down when cells divide. About 10-20% of these marks can stick around. This can affect how genes work in the long run.
To sum it up, DNA methylation is key to controlling gene activity and keeping the identity of cells.
DNA methylation is very important for controlling how genes work. It happens when small groups called methyl groups are added to DNA, mainly on a part called cytosine. This process usually happens at special spots known as CpG dinucleotides.
Here are some key points about DNA methylation:
Turning Off Genes: In human cells, around 70% of the CpG islands (which are special regions in DNA) near gene start areas are methylated. This means that these genes are turned off and can't create their proteins.
Growth Changes: The way DNA is methylated changes as we grow. For example, during the early stages of life, more than 1,000 genes show different methylation patterns. This affects how cells turn into different types.
Cancer Effects: In cancer, the methylation goes wrong. About 40% of genes can become overly methylated, which means they are turned off. This often includes important genes that help stop tumors from growing.
Memory of Methylation: Some of the methylation marks can be passed down when cells divide. About 10-20% of these marks can stick around. This can affect how genes work in the long run.
To sum it up, DNA methylation is key to controlling gene activity and keeping the identity of cells.