Mammalian genomes are characterised by unique regions of non-methylated DNA known as CpG islands (CGIs). These genomic elements are characterised by a high density of CpGs and an elevated GC content compared to the surrounding, bulk of the genome. CGIs are prevalently associated with the 5’ end of genes and represent key nucleation sites where specific transcription factors and chromatin modifiers are recruited to impact on gene function.

This thesis is focused at understanding the...