DNA methylation as a transcriptional regulator of the immune system

Transl Res. 2019 Feb:204:1-18. doi: 10.1016/j.trsl.2018.08.001. Epub 2018 Aug 9.

Abstract

DNA methylation is a dynamic epigenetic modification with a prominent role in determining mammalian cell development, lineage identity, and transcriptional regulation. Primarily linked to gene silencing, novel technologies have expanded the ability to measure DNA methylation on a genome-wide scale and uncover context-dependent regulatory roles. The immune system is a prototypic model for studying how DNA methylation patterning modulates cell type- and stimulus-specific transcriptional programs. Preservation of host defense and organ homeostasis depends on fine-tuned epigenetic mechanisms controlling myeloid and lymphoid cell differentiation and function, which shape innate and adaptive immune responses. Dysregulation of these processes can lead to human immune system pathology as seen in blood malignancies, infections, and autoimmune diseases. Identification of distinct epigenotypes linked to pathogenesis carries the potential to validate therapeutic targets in disease prevention and management.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / genetics
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Lineage
  • DNA (Cytosine-5-)-Methyltransferase 1 / antagonists & inhibitors
  • DNA Methylation*
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions
  • Humans
  • Immune System / physiology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • DNA (Cytosine-5-)-Methyltransferase 1
  • DNMT1 protein, human