The influence of organic solvents on the epigenetic regulation of gene expression

In this study we screened 22 organic solvents for epigenetic activity using the HeLa TI model system. We demonstrated that acetone, acetonitrile, methanol, mercaptoethanol, DMSO and toluene affect epigenetic mechanisms of acetylation and methylation of H3 and H4 histones, thereby participating in the regulation of gene expression. The mechanism of chloroform epigenetic action is most likely not associated with histone modifications.