DNA systems for B-Z transition and their significance as epigenetic model: the fundamental role of the methyl group

Nucleosides Nucleotides Nucleic Acids. 2011 Nov;30(11):918-44. doi: 10.1080/15257770.2011.620580.

Abstract

Epigenetic systems involved in the dynamics of gene expression, which are fundamental to cell determination and function without alteration in DNA sequences, are based on methylation of the N-terminal tails of lysine residues and DNA methylation. We demonstrate the vital importance for genetic transfer by different (hydrogen) networks, suggesting a complex interaction between the two epigenetic modifications. In other words, the methylation of local lysines can prescribe C(P)G methylation, which requires that methylation of histones and DNA are cooperative in carrying out an epigenetic instruction for integrating gene-silencing networks. To give a bio-organic description of the epigenetic coherence between histone and base methylation, we used the well-known B- into Z-DNA dynamics in combination with the unique properties of phosphatemethylated DNA on different levels of chemistry.

MeSH terms

  • DNA / chemistry
  • DNA / genetics*
  • DNA / metabolism*
  • DNA Methylation*
  • DNA, Z-Form / chemistry
  • DNA, Z-Form / genetics
  • DNA, Z-Form / metabolism
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Models, Genetic
  • Models, Molecular
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Phosphates / metabolism

Substances

  • DNA, Z-Form
  • Phosphates
  • DNA