DNA Methylation simplified

DNA methylation is a chemical modification of DNA that involves the addition of a methyl group (CH3) to a cytosine nucleotide. The cytosine nucleotide is one of the four nucleotides that make up DNA. When a methyl group is added to a cytosine nucleotide, it is called a 5-methylcytosine (5mC).

DNA methylation can affect gene expression by silencing genes. Genes that are methylated are less likely to be transcribed, which means that they are less likely to be expressed. This is because methylated genes are bound by proteins that prevent transcription.

DNA methylation is a dynamic process that can be influenced by environmental factors, such as diet, stress, and exposure to toxins. These factors can cause changes in DNA methylation, which can lead to changes in gene expression. For example, a diet high in folate has been shown to increase DNA methylation, while exposure to stress has been shown to decrease DNA methylation.

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