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Above and within the genome: epigenetics past and present
1Sangamo Biosciences, Richmond, California 94804, USA. furnov@sangamo.com
Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia
|August 15, 2001
Summary
Epigenetic regulation maintains gene expression states without altering DNA sequence. This review details DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, and key examples like X chromosome inactivation and cancer methylation patterns.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Epigenetic regulation governs heritable gene expression states, often repression, across cell divisions without changing the DNA sequence.
- Pioneering work in the 1950s by McClintock and Brink on maize kernel color inheritance laid the foundation for epigenetics research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a historical overview of epigenetic research.
- To describe the biochemistry of DNA methylation and its role in mammalian epigenetic regulation.
- To review prominent examples of epigenetically regulated loci and their molecular mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of epigenetic research.
- Biochemical description of DNA methylation.
- Review of existing data on chromatin modification and remodeling.
- Analysis of prominent epigenetic regulatory examples and underlying molecular mechanisms.
Main Results:
- DNA methylation is the primary molecular mechanism for epigenetic regulation in mammalian genomes.
- Epigenetic regulation is intricately linked to targeted chromatin structure modification and remodeling.
- Key examples include X chromosome inactivation, genomic imprinting, repetitive DNA silencing, and aberrant methylation in neoplasia.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic regulatory pathways are complex and integrate deeply with the chromatin infrastructure.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for comprehending normal development and diseases like cancer.