2Ometylering

2Ometylering, also known as O-methylation, is a biochemical process where a methyl group (CH3) is added to an oxygen atom. This modification can occur to various molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. In biological systems, O-methylation is often catalyzed by enzymes called methyltransferases, which transfer a methyl group from a donor molecule, most commonly S-adenosylmethionine (SAM).

The addition of a methyl group can significantly alter the chemical properties and biological activity of the target molecule. For instance, O-methylation of certain amino acid residues in proteins can affect protein folding, stability, and interactions with other molecules. In the context of nucleic acids, O-methylation can influence gene expression, such as the methylation of the 2'-hydroxyl group in RNA. This modification can play a role in RNA structure and function, and is implicated in various cellular processes.

The precise role and impact of 2Ometylering are highly dependent on the specific molecule being methylated and the cellular context. It is a fundamental post-translational modification and a key epigenetic mechanism involved in regulating a wide range of biological functions, including metabolism, signal transduction, and gene regulation. Dysregulation of O-methylation processes has been linked to various diseases, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis.