Methylation of histones can either increase or decrease transcription of genes, depending on which amino acids in the histones are methylated, and how many methyl groups are attached. ... This process is critical for the regulation of gene expression that allows different cells to express different genes.

Does methyl affect gene expression?

Methylation appears to influence gene expression by affecting the interactions with DNA of both chromatin proteins and specific transcription factors. ... During development, tissue-specific genes undergo demethylation in their tissue of expression.

Does methylation increase or decrease gene expression?

Whereas DNA methylation may itself reduce gene expression by impairing the binding of transcriptional activators, a second class of proteins with a high affinity for 5mC inhibits transcription factor binding.