Work

Visualizing Epigenetics: A Review of Microscopy Techniques for Investigating DNA Methylation Patterns, Chromatin Structure, and Gene Expression

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Microscopy approaches are frequently used to decipher the localization and quantify the abundance of biologically relevant molecular targets within single cells. Recent research has applied many optical imaging techniques to specifically visualize epigenetic modifications, the mechanisms by which organisms control gene expression in response to environmental factors. While many molecular and omics-based approaches are used to understand epigenetic mechanisms, imaging approaches provide spatial information that supplies greater context for discerning function. Thus, labeling approaches have been developed to quantify and visualize epigenetic targets using various fluorescence microscopy, electron microscopy, and super-resolution microscopy techniques. Here, we synthesize information about microscopy methods that enable visualization of epigenetic marks including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and localization of RNAs, which provide insights into mechanisms involved in chromatin remodeling and gene expression. The ability to determine how and where specific epigenetic marks manifest structurally and functionally in cells demonstrates the power of microscopy in aiding our understanding of epigenetic processes.

Source: Microscopy and Microanalysis

DOI: 10.1093/mam/ozaf017

Authors: Anna-Lee C Thompson, Judith L M Wopereis, Yonas I Tekle, Laura A Katz

Institutions: Smith College, Spelman College, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Language: English

Topic: Epigenetics and DNA Methylation

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,554

Funders: National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, National Institute of General Medical Sciences