1. to remove a methyl group (CH₃) from a molecule or compound
Usage: technical; chemistry; biochemistry

Examples

• The enzyme demethylates the DNA, altering gene expression.
• This protein demethylates histone residues in the cell nucleus.
• The reaction demethylates the substrate through a catalytic mechanism.
• Certain drugs work by demethylating abnormal cancer cells.
• The process demethylates methyl groups attached to the organic compound.