DNA N(6)-methyladenine: a new epigenetic mark in eukaryotes?

Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2015 Dec;16(12):705-10. doi: 10.1038/nrm4076. Epub 2015 Oct 28.

Abstract

DNA N(6)-adenine methylation (N(6)-methyladenine; 6mA) in prokaryotes functions primarily in the host defence system. The prevalence and significance of this modification in eukaryotes had been unclear until recently. Here, we discuss recent publications documenting the presence of 6mA in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans; consider possible roles for this DNA modification in regulating transcription, the activity of transposable elements and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance; and propose 6mA as a new epigenetic mark in eukaryotes.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Adenine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Adenine / chemistry
  • Animals
  • Caenorhabditis elegans / genetics*
  • Chlamydomonas reinhardtii / genetics*
  • DNA / chemistry
  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA Methylation*
  • DNA Transposable Elements / genetics
  • Drosophila melanogaster / genetics*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Genetic Markers
  • Phylogeny
  • Site-Specific DNA-Methyltransferase (Adenine-Specific) / classification
  • Site-Specific DNA-Methyltransferase (Adenine-Specific) / metabolism
  • Transcription, Genetic / genetics

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • Genetic Markers
  • DNA
  • Site-Specific DNA-Methyltransferase (Adenine-Specific)
  • Adenine
  • 6-methyladenine