CRISPR-Cas9 may restore the balance of hormones affected by the frequency of DNA methylation sites and a decrease of commensal bacteria

In this review, it is suggested that there are connections between hormonal changes, the frequency of DNA methylation, and disease. The commensal microbes of the gut may also affect the production of those hormones. Short Chain Fatty Acids, produced from gut microbiota glucose metabolism, like butyrate, propionate, folate, and acetate act as ligands that bind to G-coupled protein receptors. For example, folate from Bifidobacterium donates a methyl for synthesizing S-adenosylmethionine or SAM, which then donates a methyl to the enzymes of DNA methylation, acting as a substrate. The effects of hormones on DNA methylation was reviewed. Increased progesterone can produce breast cancer by lessening DNA methylation allowing progesterone molecules to bind DNA, amplifying gene expression. Through measuring the frequency of DNA methylation perhaps breast cancer can be more readily identified, diagnosed, and treated. The intended purpose for this review is to propose the possibility of applying CRISPR-Cas9 methods to correct and restore the balance of hormones through epigenetic means. In this review, 1) the effects of microbes on hormonal balance, 2) the connection between hormones and DNA Methylation, 3) cancer and DNA methylation, 4) measuring DNA methylation, and 5) applying CRISPR methods will be discussed.