Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Questions and answers

Epigenetics in Human Health and
Disease Questions and answers
Epigenetics

The study of how the expression of DNA can be changed without changing the structure of the DNA (no
change in DNA sequence).

Epigenetic modifications

Molecular modifications (epigenetic 'tags') to DNA itself or to proteins that provide structure to DNA.

DNA Methylation

Transfer of methyl group or 'tag' directly onto DNA molecule.

Histone Modification

Transfer of methyl or acetyl group or 'tag' to histone.

Histone

A type of protein found in chromosomes that helps give chromosomes their shape and control the
activity of genes.

Demethylation

The process of removing methyl groups from DNA.

Deacetylation

The process of removing acetyl groups from histones.

Monozygotic twins

Identical twins that share the same genotype but may have different phenotypes.

Epigenome

The complete set of epigenetic modifications on the genetic material of a cell.

Environmental factors

External factors that can impact gene expression and epigenomes.

Lifestyle factors

Personal habits and choices that can affect gene expression.

Gene expression