DNA Methylation in Solid Tumors: Functions and Methods of Detection
DNA methylation, i.e., inclusion of methyl group to 5′-carbon of cytosine residues in CpG dinucleotides, is a vital epigenetic modification controlling gene expression, and therefore implied in lots of cellular processes. Deregulation of DNA methylation is strongly connected with start of various illnesses, including cancer. Here, we review how DNA methylation affects carcinogenesis process and provide types of solid tumors where aberrant DNA methylation is EPZ019997 frequently present. We explain concepts of the way produced for DNA methylation analysis at both single gene and whole genome level, according to (i) sodium bisulfite conversion, (ii) methylation-sensitive restriction enzymes, and (iii) interactions of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) with methyl-binding proteins or antibodies against 5mC. Additionally to plain methods, we describe recent advances in next-gen sequencing technologies put on DNA methylation analysis, plus growth and development of biosensors that represent their cheaper and faster alternatives. Most significantly, we highlight not just advantages, but additionally disadvantages and challenges of every method.