Methylation profiling can be conducted using several techniques, including:
Bisulfite sequencing: This method involves treating DNA with sodium bisulfite, which converts unmethylated cytosines to uracil, while leaving methylated cytosines unchanged. Subsequent sequencing can then reveal the methylation status of each cytosine. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP): This technique uses primers specific to either methylated or unmethylated DNA, allowing for the detection of methylation at specific loci. Microarray-based methods: These methods use probes to detect methylation levels at numerous sites across the genome, providing a comprehensive methylation profile. Next-generation sequencing (NGS): NGS technologies enable high-throughput, genome-wide methylation analysis, offering detailed insights into methylation patterns.
