24/02/11 - 5-Hydroxymethyl-dUTP: A New Tool for Epigenetic Research

The epigenome is responsible for memory formation, X chromosome activation and cellular differentiation. Though the field of epigenetics considers all factors that contribute to transcriptional regulation, DNA methylation is the most well recognized, particularly the methylation of cytidine to 5-methyl-dC within CpG sites.

Scientists are finding that DNA methylation is more dynamic than previously believed. Many are now researching the various mechanisms that regulate DNA methylation, seeking to advance regenerative medicine and stem cell reprogramming. Recently 5-Hydroxymethyl-dC has been acknowledged as a key player in epigenetics. Although its exact function is not known; it may influence chromatin structure and be involved in demethylation.

A mechanism for demethylation through oxidation is carried out by a family of proteins called TET. TET1 was first discovered in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML); the proceeding succession of studies found the TET family responsible for leukaemogenesis. Interestingly, 5-Hydroxymethyl-dU is a deamination intermediate in this oxidative demethylation pathway that ultimately converts 5-methyl-dC to C. In order to provide additional tools for epigenetics research, TriLink now offers both 5-Hydroxymethyl-dCTP (Cat # N-2060) and 5-Hydroxymethyl-dUTP (Cat # N-2059)