Frequently Asked Questions Live Chat and Frequently Asked Questions are available for this Product. General description Decitabine is an epigenetic modifier that inhibits DNA methyltransferase activity which results in DNA demethylation (hypomethylation) and gene activation by remodeling "opening" chromatin. Genes are synergistically reactivated when demethylation is combined with histone hyperacetylation. Biochem/physiol Actions 5′-Azadeoxycytidine causes DNA demethylation or hemi-demethylation. DNA demethylation can regulate gene expression by "opening" the chromatin structure detectable as increased nuclease sensitivity. This remodeling of chromatin structure allows transcription factors to bind to the promoter regions, assembly of the transcription complex, and gene expression.