What Actually Is Epigenetics?

And how can we make use of this?

Upon the genes…

Much like an epidemic is upon the people (epi+demos), epigentics is “upon the genes”. Or more specifically, the study of how DNA interacts with molecules that switch genes on or off without changing the DNA sequence itself.

The thing to understand here is that DNA is like a recipe book, while epigenetic molecules determine which recipes are used, when they are used, and how much of each protein is produced.

The rest, well, let’s give a little glossary:

• Gene expression: genes are expressed when DNA is transcribed into RNA, which ribosomes translate into proteins that determine a cell’s structure and function.
• Chemical tags: epigenetic regulation commonly occurs through small chemical tags attached to DNA or the proteins around which DNA is wrapped, collectively called the epigenome.
• Gene silencing: chemical tags such as methyl groups can reduce gene expression by blocking transcription machinery or tightening DNA, making genes inaccessible while leaving the DNA sequence unchanged.
• Gene activation: other chemical tags loosen DNA, making genes easier to transcribe and increasing production of their associated proteins.

This has far-reaching consequences, because although your body contains about 200 different cell types with nearly identical genomes, each has its own unique epigenome that determines its function.

This can all be (and usually is) influenced from the outside; for example, diet, chemical exposures, medications, and other environmental factors can alter epigenetic tags, creating an ongoing interaction between genes and the environment. And this in turn is important, because harmful epigenetic changes can contribute to disease, for example by silencing genes that produce tumor-suppressing proteins.

Even social experiences can also affect the epigenome! A good example is how in a classic rat study, pups receiving insufficient maternal care developed methylation of stress-regulating genes, reducing their ability to cope with stress.

What to do with this information: while many epigenetic changes are stable, they are not always permanent. Healthy habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limiting exposure to contaminants, may promote a healthier epigenome over time.

For more on all of this, enjoy:

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