Genetic methylation testing involves analyzing the pattern of methyl groups attached to DNA. These patterns, or methylomes, can influence gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. Such evaluations can reveal epigenetic modifications linked to various health conditions and biological processes.
Understanding methylation patterns holds potential for disease risk assessment, personalized medicine, and tracking environmental impacts on health. Historically, methylation analysis was a complex and expensive procedure. Advances in technology have improved accessibility and decreased costs, leading to wider applications in research and clinical settings.