Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) is a widely used technique for acquiring base-pair resolution and quantitative information about the methylated cytosines in the genome. The process involves treating DNA with sodium bisulfite, which converts unmethylated cytosines to thymidines, leaving methylated cytosines remain unchanged, allowing researchers to identify which nucleotide sites are methylated.

WGBS provides a better understanding of gene expression and chromatin remodeling across various fields like gene regulation, cell differentiation, aging, disease occurrence and evolution in animals and plants.