Cytosine Methyltransferase

Cytosine methyltransferase is an enzyme that adds a methyl group—a small chemical label—to the cytosine bases in DNA. This process, called DNA methylation, helps regulate gene activity by turning genes on or off. It plays a vital role in development, cell differentiation, and maintaining cellular identity. Additionally, methylation can protect DNA from damage and influence how the genetic code is read. Proper functioning of this enzyme is essential for normal biological processes, while errors in methylation are linked to diseases like cancer and neurological disorders.