1. removing a methyl group (CH₃) from a molecule or compound, typically in biochemical or chemical processes
Usage: technical; chemistry/biochemistry; present participle of demethylate

Examples

• The enzyme is responsible for demethylating DNA at specific sites.
• Demethylating agents are used in cancer research to reactivate silenced genes.
• The process of demethylating histone proteins can alter gene expression.
• Scientists are studying demethylating compounds as potential therapeutic treatments.
• The demethylating reaction requires specific cofactors to proceed efficiently.