DNMT1

Updated: 2026-07-21

Overview

Methyltransferase 1 (MT1) is a crucial enzyme in the family of methyltransferases, primarily known for its role in DNA methylation. It catalyzes the addition of methyl groups to cytosine residues in DNA, a process vital for gene silencing, genomic imprinting, and X-chromosome inactivation. MT1 is highly conserved across eukaryotes and is essential for maintaining epigenetic patterns during cell division. In mammals, MT1 (also called DNMT1) is the most abundant DNA methyltransferase, ensuring the fidelity of methylation patterns in newly synthesized DNA. Dysregulation of MT1 is linked to diseases such as cancer, where aberrant methylation can lead to tumor suppressor gene silencing.

Physical and Chemical Properties

MT1 is a large protein with a molecular weight ranging between 183-200 kDa, depending on the species and post-translational modifications. It functions optimally at physiological pH (7.0-7.5) and requires S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as a methyl group donor. The enzyme is sensitive to temperature and pH extremes, with activity declining rapidly above 37°C or in acidic conditions. Commercially available MT1 is typically provided as a lyophilized powder or in buffer solutions containing stabilizers like glycerol or DTT. Its solubility depends on the buffer system, with Tris-HCl or phosphate buffers commonly used for reconstitution. Activity assays often measure the transfer of radiolabeled methyl groups to DNA substrates.

Main Applications

MT1 is widely used in epigenetic research to study DNA methylation patterns and their role in gene regulation. It is a key tool in cancer research, where hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes is a hallmark of many malignancies. Pharmaceutical companies target MT1 for drug development, particularly in designing inhibitors for cancers with dysregulated methylation. In biotechnology, MT1 is employed in vitro to methylate specific DNA sequences, aiding studies of chromatin structure and gene expression. It also has applications in agricultural science, where DNA methylation affects crop traits and stress responses.

Safety and Storage

While MT1 is not classified as hazardous, proper handling is essential to maintain its activity. Use gloves and lab coats to prevent contamination, and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can denature the enzyme. Store lyophilized powder at -20°C or -80°C; reconstituted solutions should be aliquoted and kept at -80°C for long-term use. Dispose of waste according to local regulations for biological materials. In case of spills, clean with appropriate buffers and avoid organic solvents that may degrade the enzyme. Always check the manufacturer’s SDS for specific safety guidelines.

B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring MT1 for industrial or research use, prioritize suppliers with Certificates of Analysis (CoA) detailing activity units (U/mg), purity (SDS-PAGE or HPLC), and endotoxin levels. Compare prices across vendors, as costs vary significantly based on purity (e.g., research-grade vs. GMP-grade) and source (recombinant vs. native). Bulk buyers should negotiate volume discounts and confirm batch-to-batch consistency. For specialized applications (e.g., high-throughput screening), opt for pre-optimized kits that include buffers and substrates. Verify shipping conditions (dry ice for lyophilized products) and lead times to ensure project timelines are met.