Evolution of eukaryotic DNA methylation and the pursuit of safer sex.
Cytosine methylation is an ancient process with conserved enzymology but diverse biological functions that include defense against transposable elements and regulation of gene expression. Here we will discuss the evolution and biological significance of eukaryotic DNA methylation, the likely drivers of that evolution, and major remaining mysteries.
Zemach
Assaf
A
Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
Zilberman
Daniel
D
D000818:Animals; D019175:DNA Methylation; D019143:Evolution, Molecular; D010802:Phylogeny