
H3K4 methylation
H3K4 methylation refers to the addition of methyl groups to the fourth lysine residue on histone protein H3, which is part of DNA packaging in cells. This chemical modification influences how tightly DNA is wound around histones, affecting gene activity. When H3K4 is methylated, it generally promotes gene activation, making genes more accessible for transcription. Different levels of methylation (mono-, di-, or tri-) can fine-tune gene expression, playing a crucial role in processes like development, cell differentiation, and response to environmental signals.