Genetics, Genomics, and Epigenetics

Genes

units of inheritance

encode proteins, such as enzymes

Genome

All DNA on 23 chromosomes and circular chromosomes of mitochondria

Genotype

all 2 alleles at a specific location on a gene

Phenotype

observable traits of an individual

Genetics

study of single genes or groups of genes

Genomics

study of all an organisms genes and interactions with each other and the environment

development of new preventable and therapeutic approaches based on the analysis of complete DNA sequences

Goals of Human Genome Project

Identify all human genes

map the genes’ locations on chromosomes

provide detailed info from genetic coding for how the genes function

possible ultimately help identify the key to preventing or curing various diseases and disorders

Human genome Project Findings

200,000 human genes identified carrying instructions for synthesizing every protein body needs to function

order determines the function of the gene

gene determines everything from appearance to regulation of life processes (how we process food, how we fight infection)

heritability

the proportion of observed variation in a particular trait that can be attributed to inherited genetic factors in contrast to environmental onesHeritability is a measure of how much of the variation in traits among individuals is due to genetic differences, often expressed as a percentage.

genetic variants

associated with disease risk, however, unfavorable lifestyles were associated with elevated risk vs more favorable lifestyles

implementation of precise medicine

prevention and interventions tailored to individual

optimization of patient management

family history and risk assessment incorporated into clinical practice and health and wellness initiatives

internal environment

interaction of attitudes, thoughts, emotions, feelings, beliefs, and reactions to events that directly impact physical function

External Environment

variables including air, food, water, toxins in the environment

Geographic variations

where individuals work, live, and play and the characteristics of that place impacts health status

geographic pathology

diseases continuously affecting a community, most often parasitic and infectious, unique to geographic region

environmental pathology

disease caused by contaminants, such as chemical agents, resulting in tissue changes in the body

nutrition

food intake and impact on the body systems can have profound impacts on health

precision physical therapy

targeted exercise-based interventions causing gene expression at the epigentic level