Measurement of DNA methylation using stable isotope dilution and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Anal Biochem. 2005 Jan 15;336(2):158-63. doi: 10.1016/j.ab.2004.09.034.

Abstract

A simple, highly selective, and sensitive method has been developed to quantify methylation of DNA extracted from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Assay has been performed at nucleobases level. Cytosine and 5-methylcytosine DNA content has been detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using [2-(13)C]cytosine and [2-(13)C]5-methylcytosine as internal standards. The methylation level has been calculated as 5-methylcytosine/total cytosine ratio. The working range selected on calibration curve, obtained by evaluation of standards and matrix-added standards measurements, is suitable for 5 microg DNA analysis. In this range, healthy human DNA methylation percentage is within 5-6%.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • DNA / analysis*
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA Methylation*
  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry / methods*
  • Humans
  • Molecular Structure
  • Radioisotope Dilution Technique

Substances

  • DNA

Grants and funding