Methylation
The addition of a methyl group to DNA or proteins, often silencing gene expression. A key epigenetic mechanism that doesn't change DNA sequence but affects its function.
Used in the Books
This term appears in 2 chapters:
"https://journals.biologists.com/jcs/article/125/16/3723/32471/ [OPEN ACCESS] - Review of epigenetic mechanisms in vernalization, including H3K27me3 methylation spreading across FLC gene and Polycomb-based switching. Janzen, D.H. (1976). Why bamboos wait so long to flower."
"...nduced epigenetic inheritance**: In some plants and animals, parental exposure to stress (drought, predation, toxins) induces epigenetic changes (DNA methylation patterns) that are transmitted to offspring, altering offspring phenotypes (e.g., increased stress resistance, altered growth rates)."
Biological Context
DNA methylation typically silences genes—heavily methylated regions aren't transcribed. Methylation patterns can be inherited across cell divisions and sometimes across generations. Aberrant methylation is involved in cancer, aging, and developmental disorders. Environmental factors can influence methylation.
Business Application
Organizational methylation: processes that silence certain capabilities or knowledge without destroying them. Archived projects, dormant skills, or suppressed innovations can be 'demethylated' (reactivated) when needed.