DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 3-like (DNMT3L)

Catalytically inactive regulatory factor of DNA methyltransferases that can either promote or inhibit DNA methylation based on the circumstance (By similarity). Essential for the function of DNMT3A and DNMT3B: activates DNMT3A and DNMT3B by binding to their catalytic domain (PubMed:17687327).

Acts by hastening the binding of DNA and S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet) to the methyltransferases and dissociates from the complex following DNA binding to the methyltransferases (PubMed:17687327). Recognizes unmethylated histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me0) and induces de novo DNA methylation by activation or recruitment of DNMT3 (PubMed:17687327).