DNA methylation, an evolutionarily conserved epigenetic mechanism, is crucial for controlling gene activity and ensuring genomic integrity. Altered methylation patterns can profoundly affect plant development, often resulting in atypical phenotypes. The regulation of these methylation states relies on the coordinated actions of de novo methylation, maintenance, and active demethylation, orchestrated by specialized enzymes within distinct pathways. This review delves into the diverse roles of DNA methylation in plants, offering an in-depth analysis of the enzymes and regulatory factors involved. We explore how these elements function within the broader epigenetic framework, focusing on their contributions to silencing transposable elements, modulating gene expression, and shaping chromatin architecture. The review also examines the significance of DNA methylation in plant development, particularly its role in adapting to biotic and abiotic stresses. Lastly, we highlight its potential for driving innovations in crop breeding, emphasizing its applicability in advancing sustainable agriculture.

Sweet potato starch is an important source of starch in food processing, but its natural functionality is relatively limited, restricting its performance in certain applications. Gelatinized sweet potato starch, with enhanced structural and functional properties, has broader potential applications in food products. During the gelatinization process, the crystalline structure of sweet potato starch changes, making it suitable for use in various food formulations. Gelatinized sweet potato starch can be produced through techniques such as moist heat processing, extrusion, and spray drying, with the gelatinization effect influenced by factors such as moisture content and temperature. This review summarizes the gelatinization techniques and influencing factors for sweet potato starch, highlighting how structural changes under different conditions affect the quality of the final food products. Understanding these techniques and influencing factors helps optimize the gelatinization process of sweet potato starch, enhancing its application in foods such as noodles and baked goods. This knowledge provides theoretical support and practical guidance for the further utilization of sweet potato starch in the food industry.

DNA methylation, a highly conserved epigenetic modification, plays an essential role in regulating gene expression and maintaining genome stability. Aberrations in DNA methylation patterns can significantly disrupt plant developmental processes, often leading to abnormal phenotypes. These methylation states are governed by a dynamic interplay of de novo methylation, maintenance methylation, and active demethylation, mediated by a suite of specialized enzymes operating under distinct regulatory pathways. This review explores the multifaceted roles of DNA methylation in plants. We provide a comprehensive overview of methylases, demethylases, and regulatory factors, elucidating how these components interact within the broader methylation machinery. Key functions of DNA methylation, including its roles in transposon silencing, gene expression regulation, and chromatin interactions, are systematically examined. Additionally, the impact of DNA methylation on plant development is analyzed, with a focus on its involvement in responses to biotic and abiotic stressors. Finally, we discuss the potential applications of DNA methylation in crop improvement, highlighting its promise for advancing modern agricultural practices.