Skip to main content

Methylation

Meaning

Methylation is a fundamental biochemical process involving the transfer of a methyl group—a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms—from one molecule to another, typically catalyzed by methyltransferase enzymes. This simple chemical reaction is critical for numerous physiological functions, including DNA and protein regulation, neurotransmitter synthesis, hormone metabolism, and detoxification. Clinically, impaired methylation is associated with elevated homocysteine levels and can compromise cardiovascular, neurological, and endocrine health.