noun
- the process of adding a methyl group to a molecule, especially in biological systems where it regulates gene expression
Usage: biochemistry; molecular biology
Examples
- DNA methylation plays a crucial role in controlling which genes are turned on or off.
- The researcher studied methylation patterns in cancer cells.
- Methylation of histones can affect chromatin structure.
- Environmental factors can influence methylation processes.
- The lab analyzed methylation levels in different tissue samples.
- Abnormal methylation has been linked to various diseases.