A scientist observes a gene that is not being expressed. Upon analysis, they find that the histones associated with this gene are heavily methylated. What is the likely effect of this methylation on the chromatin structure?

• A. The methylation likely tightens the chromatin structure, reducing gene accessibility.
• B. The methylation likely loosens the chromatin structure, increasing gene accessibility.
• C. The methylation causes the chromatin to become euchromatin.
• D. The methylation has no effect on chromatin structure.

Answer: (A)