epigenetics

What is methylation?

A common type of epigenetic modification. Involves attaching 3 small molecules called methyl groups to segments of DNA. When methyl groups are added to a particular gene, that gene is turned off or silenced and no protein is produced from that gene.

What is epigenetics?

Chemical compounds that are added to single genes can regulate their activities - this is epigenetic changes. DNA sequence is not changed but DNA activity is.

What are epigenetic tags?

Chemicals, such as tags, turn genes on and off, w/o changing the underlying code

What are imprinted genes?

Epigenetic tags that remain on certain genes of a zygote. (Most are removed)

What is the purpose of epignetic changes?

To determine whether genes are turned on or off so only necessary proteins are produced.

Can environmental influences effect the epigenome?

Yes

Can epigenetic modifications be inherited?

Yes - the modifications also remain as cells divide and can also be inherited.

What has been attributed to epigentic errors?

cancers, metabolic disorders, and degenerative disorders

What is the epigenome?

chemical compounds and proteins that can attach to DNA and direct actions such as turning genes on or off, controlling the production of proteins in a particular cell.

What might affect epigenetic tags?

diet, food, stress, chemicals, environmental toxics

Can epigenetic modifications cause genetic disorders?

yes - b/c of errors, can modify the wrong gene, fail to add a compound to a gene and lead to abnormal gene activity or inactivity.