Variability of DNA methylation in sugar beet morphogenesis

The state of DNA methylation in green leaves and etiolated seedlings of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) were compared. Using methylsensitive enzymes of restriction the site-specificity of DNA methylation was shown. Sites of Msp1 and DraII recognition were subjected to the greatest differentiated modification. External residues of CpCpGpG-sites cytosine were extensively undermethylated in DNA of roots than that both hypocotyls with cotyledons and leaves. In DNA of etiolated seedlings the sites of Xho1, DraII, recognition showed the high level of methylation while in the leaf DNA they were undermethylated in different degree. Variability of enzymatic modification of cytosine indicated to the possible participation of methylation in morphogenesis of sugar beet.