Epigenetics is a discipline that aims to regulate gene expression without changing the sequence of DNA. More specifically, epigenetics mainly controls the turning on or off of genes by modifying DNA. These modifications are implemented in DNA, including phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination. It is worth noting that the current concept of epigenetics also covers non-coding RNA (ncRNA).
Fig.1 Schematic representation of epigenetic mechanisms.1, 2
DNA modification refers to changes in the genome of an organism, which is a well-known epigenetic process in several aging-related diseases. As a crucial form of DNA modification, methylation plays a vital role in regulating transcription. In addition, altered methylation patterns are closely related to the development of cancer.
Histone modifications involve two mechanisms. One directly affects the overall structure of chromatin while the other involves the binding of effector molecules. Currently, a variety of histone modifications have been reported, including methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination. In addition, some other modifications, such as citrullination and isomerization, have gradually attracted more and more attention.
Chromatin remodelers are versatile tools that catalyze a wide range of chromatin-altering reactions, including nucleosome sliding, altered nucleosomal DNA conformation, and histone variant exchange. Chromatin remodelers are also associated with other cellular functions, including DNA repair, chromatin compaction, and chromatin maintenance. In summary, chromatin remodelers are crucial factors in the regulation of molecular and cellular functions.
In molecular biology, transcription factors (TFs) regulate the rate of transcription of genetic information by binding to specific DNA sequences. Furthermore, TFs can ensure that target genes are expressed in appropriate amounts at different stages of the organism. Importantly, TF is also involved in controlling life activities such as cell division, cell growth, and cell death.
Errors in epigenetic processes, such as incorrect genetic modifications, can lead to abnormal gene activity. Altered gene activity is a common cause of several genetic diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancers, and degenerative diseases.
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