We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress
Sign In
Advertise with Us
PURITAN MEDICAL

Download Mobile App




DNA Methylation Generates Differential Gene Expression in Sister Stem Cells

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 14 Oct 2013
Print article
Image: A DNA molecule that is methylated on both strands on the center cytosine. DNA methylation plays an important role for epigenetic gene regulation in development and cancer (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons).
Image: A DNA molecule that is methylated on both strands on the center cytosine. DNA methylation plays an important role for epigenetic gene regulation in development and cancer (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons).
DNA methylation was shown to be primarily responsible for differences in gene expression displayed by "sister" stem cells.

Despite having identical DNA, sister embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can display considerable differences in their molecular characteristics. How stem cells regulate expression of their genes is crucial to many fundamental biological processes, such as embryonic development, regeneration, and turnover of blood, skin, and other tissues in the body, but especially to cancer.

In a study published in the September 26, 2013, online edition of the journal Stem Cell Reports investigators at the Institute of Cancer Research (London, United Kingdom) used a novel microdissection technique to examine differences in expression of 48 key genes between sister stem cells.

Their system, which was based on single cell RNA analysis, revealed considerable diversities between sister ESCs at both pluripotent and differentiated states. When the stem cells were grown in the presence inhibitors that induced the cells to revert to their most primitive stem cell state, gene expression between sister cells was significantly more similar.

DNA methyltransferases were downregulated in the inhibited ESCs, and the loss of these enzymes was sufficient to generate nearly identical sister cells. These results suggest that DNA methylation was a major cause of the diversity between sister cells at the pluripotent states. DNA methylation stably alters the expression of genes in cells as they divide and differentiate from embryonic stem cells into specific tissues. The resulting change is normally permanent and unidirectional, preventing a differentiated cell from reverting back to a stem cell or converting into another type of tissue.

Senior author Dr. Tomoyuki Sawado, leader of the stem cells and chromatin team at The Institute of Cancer Research, said, "Embryonic stem cell division is generally believed to be a symmetrical process, but what we found was that sister cells are actually often quite different from one another. We used a new technique to separate paired stem cells combined with assays that measure RNA in individual cells. Our research showed that sister stem cells display considerable differences in which genes are expressed. These differences are advantageous for normal stem cells in their constantly changing environment, and in cancer cells, the same characteristics can enable them to evade treatments. If we can control a process like DNA methylation that creates diversity in cell populations, we could create more efficient treatments for cancer."

Related Links:

The Institute of Cancer Research


Platinum Member
COVID-19 Rapid Test
OSOM COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test
One Step HbA1c Measuring System
GREENCARE A1c
Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Test
GPP-100 Anti-CCP Kit
New
Gold Member
Systemic Autoimmune Testing Assay
BioPlex 2200 ANA Screen with MDSS

Print article

Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image: Reaching speeds up to 6,000 RPM, this centrifuge forms the basis for a new type of inexpensive, POC biomedical test (Photo courtesy of Duke University)

POC Biomedical Test Spins Water Droplet Using Sound Waves for Cancer Detection

Exosomes, tiny cellular bioparticles carrying a specific set of proteins, lipids, and genetic materials, play a crucial role in cell communication and hold promise for non-invasive diagnostics.... Read more

Molecular Diagnostics

view channel
Image: MOF materials efficiently enrich cfDNA and cfRNA in blood through simple operational process (Photo courtesy of Science China Press)

Blood Circulating Nucleic Acid Enrichment Technique Enables Non-Invasive Liver Cancer Diagnosis

The ability to diagnose diseases early can significantly enhance the effectiveness of clinical treatments and improve survival rates. One promising approach for non-invasive early diagnosis is the use... Read more

Hematology

view channel
Image: The low-cost portable device rapidly identifies chemotherapy patients at risk of sepsis (Photo courtesy of 52North Health)

POC Finger-Prick Blood Test Determines Risk of Neutropenic Sepsis in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Neutropenia, a decrease in neutrophils (a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections), is a frequent side effect of certain cancer treatments. This condition elevates the risk of infections,... Read more

Pathology

view channel
Image: The OvaCis Rapid Test discriminates benign from malignant epithelial ovarian cysts (Photo courtesy of INEX)

Intra-Operative POC Device Distinguishes Between Benign and Malignant Ovarian Cysts within 15 Minutes

Ovarian cysts represent a significant health issue for women globally, with up to 10% experiencing this condition at some point in their lives. These cysts form when fluid collects within a thin membrane... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2024 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.