Best practices for methylome characterization in novel species: a case study in the microalgae Microchloropsis.

ABSTRACT: Microalgae remain an important feedstock in the circular bioeconomy. The discovery of new species combined with advanced biotechnology drives optimization of performance predicated on deep knowledge of algal genomics and phenotype. Understanding the contribution of epigenetic processes to algal function provides insight and better approaches for achieving production goals. Here, we provide a methodological framework for investigating epigenetic modifications in new species, including analysis of state-of-the-art techniques, and best practices for discerning novel modifications, focusing on variants of DNA methylation. Further, we demonstrate that specific forms of DNA methylation are overlooked by traditional epigenetic analysis strategies. Using high-throughput, lower cost techniques, we

SUBMITTER: Steadman CR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12019312 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature