What is the Origin of Epigenetic Methylation?

The term combines 'epigenetics,' meaning 'above' or 'on top of' genetics, with 'methylation,' referring to the chemical addition of a methyl group. This field emerged from understanding how environmental exposures can cause heritable changes in gene function independent of primary DNA sequence alteration. It provides a molecular link between environment and phenotype.

What is the Mechanism of Epigenetic Methylation?

DNA Methylation acts by physically impeding the binding of transcription factors to the promoter region of a gene. Furthermore, methylated DNA attracts methyl-binding domain proteins, which recruit histone deacetylases, leading to a condensed, transcriptionally inactive chromatin state. This mechanism allows for stable, long-term silencing or activation of genes responsive to developmental or environmental cues, including those related to steroidogenesis.

Epigenetic Methylation

Meaning

Epigenetic Methylation is a specific biochemical modification involving the covalent addition of a methyl group, usually to cytosine bases in CpG islands within gene promoter regions, thereby altering chromatin structure. This process serves as a crucial mechanism for regulating gene expression, often leading to transcriptional repression of target genes. In hormonal science, it dictates tissue-specific responses to endocrine signals.