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DNA Methylation Reversibility

Meaning

DNA Methylation Reversibility describes the capacity of a cell to actively remove or add methyl groups to cytosine bases in the DNA, thereby dynamically changing gene expression patterns. DNA methylation typically acts as a repressive epigenetic mark, silencing genes by making the DNA inaccessible to transcription machinery. The concept of reversibility is crucial because it highlights that these epigenetic marks are not permanent, allowing the genome to adapt its function in response to environmental, nutritional, and hormonal signals. Clinically, this reversibility is a key target for interventions aimed at correcting age-related or lifestyle-induced gene dysregulation.