Hydroxymethylation as a Novel Environmental Biosensor

Beyond the genome, epigenetics has become a promising approach in understanding the interactions between the gene and the environment. Epigenetic regulation includes DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. Among these, DNA methylation, which is the addition of a methyl group to the fifth base of cytosine to produce 5-methylcytosine (5-mC), is most commonly studied. Epigenetic regulation has changed given the discovery of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC), considered the "sixth base", and the nature of TET proteins to catalyze 5-mC oxidation to 5-hmC. 5-hydroxymethylation has been proposed to be a stable intermediate between methylation and demethylation and has raised questions about the functions of 5-hmC in gene regulation in cells, tissues, and organs in response to environmental exposure. Herein, we have provided an introduction to the chemistry of 5-hydroxymethylation, and the techniques for detection of 5-hydroxymethylation. In addition, we have reviewed current reports describing how 5-hmC responds to environmental factors, leading to the development of disease. And finally, we have discussed the potential use of 5-hmC in the study of disease development. All in all, it is our goal to provide innovative and convincing epigenetic studies for understanding the etiology of environmentally-related human disease, and translate these epigenetic findings into lifestyle recommendations and clinical practices to prevent and cure disease.