What role does De Novo methylation play?

De Novo methylation refers to the process of establishing new methylation marks on DNA, particularly during critical periods such as embryonic development. This process is essential for the regulation of gene expression and cellular differentiation. In embryonic development, De Novo methylation contributes to turning on and off specific genes, helping to guide the formation of different tissues and organs from the earliest stages of development.

During this time, the genome undergoes significant reprogramming, and the introduction of new methylation patterns plays a crucial role in shaping the developmental trajectory of the organism. The timing and patterns of De Novo methylation are tightly controlled, ensuring that genes necessary for early development are appropriately expressed or silenced as needed.

Maintaining existing methylation patterns is a separate function typically associated with maintenance methylation processes, and the roles of active transcription and development in fully differentiated cells do not inherently include the establishment of new methylation patterns. Therefore, understanding De Novo methylation is vital for appreciating its function in developmental biology.