AI Article Synopsis
- DNA methylation is a key epigenetic feature studied mainly in mammals and plants, but there's limited understanding of its role in unicellular organisms.
- Research into the DNA methylation processes in these organisms can enhance our knowledge of their biology.
- Recent studies highlight surprising discoveries about the epigenetic factors in protozoa, including the role of the mysterious DNA methyltransferase Dnmt2.
Article Abstract
DNA methylation is an epigenetic hallmark that has been studied intensively in mammals and plants. However, knowledge of this phenomenon in unicellular organisms is scanty. Examining epigenetic regulation, and more specifically DNA methylation, in these organisms represents a unique opportunity to better understand their biology. The determination of their methylation status is often complicated by the presence of several differentiation stages in their life cycle. This article focuses on some recent advances that have revealed the unexpected nature of the epigenetic determinants present in protozoa. The role of the enigmatic DNA methyltransferase Dnmt2 in unicellular organisms is discussed.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pt.2008.02.002 | DOI Listing |
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