Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

06:07
Continuous Fluorescence-Based Endonuclease-Coupled DNA Methylation Assay to Screen for DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitors
Published on: August 5, 2022
[Colorectal carcinoma and DNA methylation]
1Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.
Summary
Epigenetic regulation, specifically DNA methylation, is crucial in colorectal cancer development by altering gene activity. Targeting these reversible epigenetic changes offers new avenues for colorectal cancer therapy and diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cancer Research
Context:
- Epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation, are integral to eukaryotic gene expression.
- Aberrant epigenetic regulation is a hallmark of cancer development.
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) progression is significantly influenced by epigenetic alterations.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the role of epigenetic regulation in colorectal cancer.
- To investigate the specific mechanisms of DNA methylation in CRC pathogenesis.
- To explore the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of targeting DNA methylation in colorectal carcinoma.
Summary:
- Epigenetic regulation, involving DNA methylation, is a key driver in colorectal cancer.
- DNA methylation in colorectal cancer is linked to the activation of oncogenes and the silencing of tumor suppressor genes.
- The reversible nature of DNA methylation presents opportunities for novel therapeutic strategies and diagnostic biomarkers in colorectal cancer.
Impact:
- Understanding epigenetic modifications in colorectal cancer can lead to the development of targeted therapies.
- The reversibility of DNA methylation offers a promising avenue for overcoming therapeutic resistance.
- Identifying specific DNA methylation patterns could improve early diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal carcinoma.
Related Concept Videos
Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic changes alter the physical structure of the DNA without changing the genetic sequence and often regulate whether genes are turned on or off. This regulation ensures that each cell produces only proteins necessary for its function. For example, proteins that promote bone growth are not produced in muscle cells. Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
X-chromosome...
X-chromosome...
Carboxylic Acids to Methylesters: Alkylation using Diazomethane
Carboxylic acids react with diazomethane in an ether solvent via alkylation at the carboxylate oxygen atom to give methyl esters of the corresponding acid with excellent yields.

