Function
DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) catalyzes the transfer of methyl group to DNA. Methylation is essential for gene expression. DNMT uses S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) as the methyl donor. The SAM analog S-adenosyl homocysteine (SAH) is a powerful inhibitor of DNMT.
- Methylguanine DNMT repairs the DNA lesion O6-methylguanine to guanine.[1]
- Methylcytosine DNMT methylates the 5 position of cytosine. [2]
- Methyladenine DNMT methylates the 6 position of adenine. [3]
Relevance
DNMT inhibitors are being tested in cancer therapy.
Disease
The human ICF disorder is caused by mutations in DNMT 3B.
Structural highlights
The active site of methyladenine DNMT contains the methyl donor SAM.
