Epigenomics

Partners: CNG and Epigenomics AG

DNA methylation occurs naturally on cytosine bases within CpG sequences.  It is a frequent occurrence; an estimated 80% of all CpG sites are methylated in mammals. Methylation of cytosines in gene promoters can shut off gene expression either by directly interfering with the binding of transcription factors or by chromatin condensation.  Thus the differential methylation of cytosines provides a mechanism to alter genome function and gives rise to distinct patterns specific for different tissue types and disease states. These Methylation Variable Positions (MVPs) are considered epigenetic biomarkers and can be correlated with gene expression and accordingly with the phenotype of many of the most important common and complex human diseases (e.g. T2DM, cancer, arteriosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis).