====== Methylation profiling ====== Methylation profiling is the process of measuring the pattern of DNA methylation β€” the addition of a methyl group (CH₃) to cytosine residues, typically at CpG dinucleotides β€” across specific regions or the entire genome. Definition: Methylation profiling is a genomic analysis technique used to identify and quantify DNA methylation patterns, which are key epigenetic modifications influencing gene expression, cell differentiation, and disease states such as cancer. Key points: It helps distinguish between normal and abnormal epigenetic states. Commonly used in cancer diagnostics, developmental biology, and neuroscience. Techniques include: Bisulfite sequencing (e.g., WGBS) Methylation arrays (e.g., Illumina 450K, EPIC) MeDIP-seq (methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing)