Abstract
There are two biological properties of genomic methylation patterns that can be regarded as established. First, methylation of 5'-CpG-3' dinucleotides within promoters represses transcription, often to undetectable levels. Second, in most cases methylation patterns are subject to clonal inheritance. These properties suit methylation patterns for a number of biological roles, although none of the current hypotheses can be regarded as proved or disproved. One hypothesis suggests that the activity of parasitic sequence elements is repressed by selective methylation. Features of invasive sequences that might allow their identification and inactivation are discussed in terms of the genome defense hypothesis. Identification of the cues that direct de novo methylation may reveal the biological role (or roles) of genomic methylation patterns.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
