Abstract
DNA methylation is a key epigenetic modification in mammalian genomes and is dynamically regulated in development and diseases. While enzymes catalyzing DNA methylation have been well characterized, those involved in demethylation have remained elusive until recently. Mounting evidence now suggests that the TET proteins, a family of AlkB-like Fe(II)/α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases, initiate active DNA demethylation by oxidizing 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to generate 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine (5fC), and 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC). In this chapter, we discuss the molecular basis of DNA demethylation in mammalian genomes, focusing on TET proteins and TET-mediated oxidative DNA demethylation. Other potential DNA demethylation pathways are also summarized.
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 call
