Wednesday, May 2, 2018

Epigenetics, The Definition, And Examples

By Jason Wagner


It is basically an external modification to DNA that turns certain genes either off or on. The word epigenetics means above or on top of genes. They do not affect the DNA sequence but rather how they read. These factors can last up to the end of the lifetime of a cell. It may also be passed on to other generations but never affecting the DNA sequence. It may last from childhood to adult hood.

It can at times alters DNA. For example, a DNA methylation may be added to a methyl cap and may cause alteration to the genetic appearance. It may lead to the suppression of some genes. This will deny some genes the opportunity to be expressed. The physical appearance of the person or animal may appear different, but the DNA structure appears to be the same.

DNA is very long. It would not be able to fit into a cell was It not for a protein known as histone. DNA does not squash the protein, however. It lays out itself comfortably. If the DNA is too tight, it will be impossible to read because of the DNA reading cells. The modifications make the histone relax, and the material is easier to read.

Various genes express themselves differently depending on how strong and their functionality at different intervals. This is why the skin cell, brain cells, and muscle cells appear to be very different yet they have the same genetic composition. The fact that these cells are different is the reason why our body parts are also different. They, however, work together in order to conduct bodily functions and to the purpose they are intended to undertake on that instant.

Epigenetics may actually be passed on to the next generation. This may happen if they are present in the sperm or egg cell or both. However, the epigenetics are erased when the sperm and egg combine to form a fertilized egg. This process is called reprogramming. It is where the cells of the fetus are given a chance to form their own epigenetics.

This is however not always the case. Some of this genetics are resistant to the reprogramming process. This means that that genetics is going to be passed on to the child once the egg is fertilized. This means like factors such as food ingested before the conception of the child, may actually affect the future of the child. It is however yet to be proven in human beings.

Epigenetics may actually have a role in the development of some cancers. Some of the genes kill the ability to control how big a cell grows. This means that the cell could overgrow at a very rapid rate. It may eventually stat to inhibit normal bodily functions in various body parts. It the end, it turns out to be a tumor.

Some others are known to suppress the cells responsible for repairing the damaged DNA. When these are suppressed the immune system grows weak. This is one of the ways cancer is able to inhabit the body of the person.




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