Overview
Epigenetics is a fascinating field that explores how gene expression is regulated without changes to the DNA sequence itself. It involves mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone modification, which can turn genes on or off, influencing everything from development to disease. Understanding epigen...
Key Terms
Example: Epigenetics explains how identical twins can have different traits.
Example: In cancer cells, abnormal DNA methylation patterns can silence tumor suppressor genes.
Example: Histones can be modified to either tighten or loosen DNA, affecting gene accessibility.
Example: Chromatin structure can change based on histone modifications.
Example: Gene expression can be upregulated or downregulated by epigenetic mechanisms.
Example: Transcription is the first step in gene expression.