Abstract
DNA methylation, a process of adding a methyl group to DNA done by a DNA methyltransferase is a heritable (epigenetic) alteration leading to cancer, atherosclerosis, nervous disorders (Imprinting disorders), and cardiovascular diseases. The role of nutrition in DNA methylation is revealed by identification of methyl variable positions (MVP) on DNA. These regions are more susceptible to DNA methylations. Nutritional supplementation of folic acid and methionine in utero and in adults decreased epigenetic modifications due to its role in DNA metabolism (one carbon metabolism). Thus, in utero and adult supplementation of folic acid and methionine may reduce DNA methylation. This review attempts to highlight the process of DNA methylation, its effect on various diseases, and the probable protective role of nutrition.
Highlights
BackgroundDNA methylation is a genetic process that is extensively being researched among mammals, including humans
DNA methylation, a process of adding a methyl group to DNA done by a DNA methyltransferase is a heritable alteration leading to cancer, atherosclerosis, nervous disorders (Imprinting disorders), and cardiovascular diseases
The major donor of the methyl group is s-adenosylmethionine (SAM) formed from methionine, and the methylation reaction is done by the action of the enzyme DNA methyltransferase (DMT) as shown in Figure 1 [1]
Summary
DNA methylation is a genetic process that is extensively being researched among mammals, including humans. The significance of DNA methylation and its role in the development of various diseases/processes that include formation of tumours, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, imprinting disorders, and ageing is least understood. Hypermethylation in an abnormal state leads to transcriptional silencing and gene inactivation, whereas hypomethylation is linked to chromosomal instability and loss of imprinting (transfer of methylated patterns to daughter cells). The process of expressing the DNA methylation pattern of a specific gene based on parental origin is known as imprinting [18]. The failure of this process of imprinting leads to imprinting disorders. Nutrient-based DNA methylation is gene specific, site specific, tissue specific, and age specific
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