EPIGENETIC Meaning and
Definition
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Epigenetic is an adjective that describes the study of changes in gene activity or expression that does not involve alterations to the DNA sequence. It refers to the heritable modifications in gene function, which can be passed down from one generation to another. These modifications influence the way genes are expressed without directly modifying the genetic code itself.
Epigenetic processes are crucial for the regulation of gene expression and determine which genes are turned on or off in different cell types or at different developmental stages. These modifications can occur through various mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA molecules, which act as chemical tags or signals that can activate or repress certain genes.
Epigenetics play a fundamental role in several biological processes, including embryonic development, cell differentiation, aging, and response to environmental factors. They contribute to the diversity and specialization of cells in multicellular organisms, allowing for the growth and maintenance of complex organisms with different cell types.
Epigenetic modifications are dynamic and reversible, and can be influenced by environmental factors such as diet, stress, toxins, and lifestyle choices. They can also be disrupted or altered in certain diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. Understanding epigenetic mechanisms and their contribution to gene regulation is a rapidly evolving field of research with significant implications for human health and disease.
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Relating to epigenesis in any sense.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for EPIGENETIC
Etymology of EPIGENETIC
The word "epigenetic" comes from the Greek language. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "epi" meaning "on" or "above" and "genetics" which refers to the study of genes and heredity. Thus, "epigenetic" can be translated to mean "above" or "in addition to" genetics. It is a term used to describe the study of heritable changes in gene expression or cellular phenotype that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence.
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