Single-cell, locus-specific bisulfite sequencing (SLBS) for direct detection of epimutations in DNA methylation patterns.

ABSTRACT: Stochastic epigenetic changes drive biological processes, such as development, aging and disease. Yet, epigenetic information is typically collected from millions of cells, thereby precluding a more precise understanding of cell-to-cell variability and the pathogenic history of epimutations. Here we present a novel procedure for directly detecting epimutations in DNA methylation patterns using single-cell, locus-specific bisulfite sequencing (SLBS). We show that within gene promoter regions of mouse hepatocytes the epimutation rate is two orders of magnitude higher than the mutation rate.

SUBMITTER: Gravina S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4538804 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature