CpG islets, also known as CpG islands, are regions of DNA that contain a high frequency of cytosine-guanine pairs. These regions are often found near the promoters of genes and are important for regulating gene expression.
CpG islets are formed through a process called methylation, where a methyl group is added to the cytosine bases in the DNA sequence. This process can occur during embryonic development or in response to environmental factors.
CpG islets play a crucial role in gene regulation by influencing the binding of transcription factors and other proteins involved in gene expression. They also help protect the DNA from degradation and maintain the stability of the genome.
Abnormal methylation of CpG islets has been linked to various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders. Changes in the methylation pattern of CpG islets can alter gene expression and disrupt normal cellular functioning.
Scientists use various techniques such as bisulfite sequencing and methylation-specific PCR to study CpG islets. These methods allow researchers to identify and analyze the methylation patterns of CpG islets in different tissues and compare them between healthy and diseased individuals.