DNA Methylation and Bisulfite Sequencing

DNA Methylation is a key epigenetic modification involving the addition of a methyl group to cytosine bases, primarily at CpG islands, influencing gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Bisulfite Sequencing (BS-Seq) is the gold-standard technique for detecting and quantifying DNA methylation at single-nucleotide resolution. This topic covers the principles of bisulfite conversion, library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis for whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and targeted approaches. Zambian university students learn how DNA methylation regulates development, cellular differentiation, and disease processes such as cancer. Understanding epigenomic mechanisms is critical for careers in molecular pathology, oncology, and public health, enabling graduates to contribute to biomarker discovery, early detection, and epigenetic therapies in Zambia's healthcare landscape.