Methylation Flashcards
What is Methylation?
it’s like putting a sticky note on your DNA that tells your cells which genes should be active or quiet. This “sticky note” is a tiny group called a methyl group (CH3) and it attaches to your DNA to help control which genes are “on” or “off”.
explain more in scientific terms
A biochemical process where a methyl group (CH3) is added to a molecule, typically to DNA. This process is a critical role in regulating gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence.
What base does methylation occur on?
the Cytosine base. (C).
this is relevant for what cases/call points?
- Oncology** due to gene expression.
- Development Biology (SynBio)
- Inherited disease
- Disease pathology
- Disease markers in oncology.
what are the sites on the DNA called where Methylation happens?
CpG sites
Think of them like addresses on the DNA where methyl groups can attach.
T or F- Methylation can either turn on or turn off the activity of certain genes?
True
What is an example of this in cancer/oncology?
“tumor suppressor genes” or genes that can help stop tumors. These genes can get turned off because the wrong methylation occurs. This can lead to uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.
Ex: BRCA1 and BRCA2
what does epigenetic mean?
The study of changes in gene activity that don’t involve changes to the DNA sequence itself (like methylation).
Methylation is crucial for things like:
- Growth
- Development
- Gene Regulation
what is gene expression?
when a gene gets turned on and it’s instructions are used to make something (like a protein)
what is CpG sites?
special spots on your DNA where methylation usually happens
Quick Recap
- Methylation is like a switch that tells your DNA when to be active or quiet.
- it’s important for controlling growth, development and how genes work in the body
- Methylation can be affected by things like diet, stress, and toxins. and it can sometimes lead to diseases like cancer when it goes wrong.
