Epigenetics

Original Editor - Lucinda hampton

Top Contributors - Lucinda hampton and Chelsea Mclene  

Introduction

Epigenetics is the study of heritable and stable changes in gene expression that occur through adjustments in the chromosome rather than in the DNA sequence. They do not directly altering the DNA sequence rather epigenetic mechanisms are able to regulate gene expression through chemical modifications of DNA bases and changes to the chromosomal superstructure in which DNA is packaged.

Epigenetics affects how genes are read by cells, and subsequently whether the cells should produce relevant proteins, in effect controlling our genes. e.g determining a cell’s specialization (e.g., skin cell, blood cell, hair cell, liver cells, etc.) as a fetus develops into a baby through gene expression (active) or silencing (dormant); and also through nurture with environmental stimuli having the ability to cause genes to be turned off or turned on.

Epigenetic mechanisms are affected by several factors and processes including development in utero and in childhood, environmental chemicals, drugs and pharmaceuticals, aging, and diet. DNA methylation is what occurs when methyl groups, an epigenetic factor found in some dietary sources, can tag DNA and activate or repress genes. Histones are proteins around which DNA can wind for compaction and gene regulation. Histone modification occurs when the binding of epigenetic factors to histone “tails” alters the extent to which DNA is wrapped around histones and the availability of genes in the DNA to be activated. All of these factors and processes can have an effect on people’s health and influence their health possibly resulting in cancer, autoimmune disease, mental disorders, or diabetes among other illnesses.

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