DNA methylation plays an essential role in maintaining cellular function, and hyper- or hypo- changes in methylation patterns may contribute to the development of chronic diseases and conditions such as cancer, chromosome instability, tumor suppressor gene faults, as well as joint conditions, skeletal problems, digestive malfunctions, neurological and nervous system disorders and suppressed immune ability.
Clinical studies suggest that protective effects associated with several bio-activities may relate to DNA methylation patterns. Dietary and nutrient factors provide most evidence of this because of their influence in the supply and action of methyl groups, and therefore the biochemical pathways of methylation processes that create healthy living. These nutrients include folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, methionine, choline, and selenium, for example.
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