Epigenetics is the study of how environmental factors and behaviors can change gene activity without altering the DNA sequence. The term "epigenetics" comes from the Greek word "epi-" which means "on or above".
How does epigenetics work?
Epigenetics changes the chemicals attached to DNA, which regulates whether genes are turned on or off
Epigenetic changes can be passed on from parent to child during cell division or from one generation to the next
Epigenetic changes can affect health in many ways, including cancer, cognitive dysfunction, and other illnesses
Factors that affect epigenetics Diet, Physical activity, Access to resources, Exposure to environmental factors, and Early experiences.
Epigenetics and disease
Epigenetics can help scientists understand why diseases happen and explore new avenues for treatment
Epigenetics can help explain why different types of cells, such as those from brain or skin, look and behave so differently
Related terms
Epigenomics is another term for epigenetics
Epigenome is the collection of all epigenetic changes in a genome