Epigenetics
Epigenetics is the study of changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. It’s like a molecular switch that can turn genes on or off, influencing how cells function without changing their genetic code. These changes can be triggered by environmental factors, lifestyle, and experiences, and can even be passed down to future generations. Essentially, epigenetics helps explain how our environment and behavior can impact our biology and health, highlighting the interplay between genetics and the world around us.
Additional Insights
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Epigenetics is the study of how external factors can influence gene expression without changing the DNA sequence itself. Think of your DNA as a recipe book; epigenetics involves bookmarks and notes that tell the cell which recipes to use, when, and how much. These modifications can be affected by lifestyle, environment, and experiences, potentially impacting health and development. Importantly, some epigenetic changes can be passed on to the next generation, suggesting that our choices may affect not just our own biology, but also that of our descendants.