Epigenetics Notes

Epigenetics

Assumption One: Genes determine our behavior.

Introduction to Epigenetics

Epigenetics is the study of processes undertaken by epigenomes.

Epigenomes

• Epigenomes are chemical marks on genetics that accumulate during development.

• They determine how much or how little a gene is expressed in future generations.

Nature vs. Nurture

• The assumption that behavior is determined by EITHER nature OR nurture is not supported by epigenetic research.

• It is almost always BOTH nature AND nurture that influence behavior.

Factors Influencing Epigenetics

• How can your epigenetics change?

  • Nutrition During Pregnancy

  • Cancer

  • Life events as you get older

  • Development

  • Age

  • Reversibility

  • Infections

• Examples:

  • BRCA1 gene and other mutations increase the likelihood of developing cancer.

  • A pregnant woman’s environment and behavior during pregnancy can change the baby’s epigenetics for decades.

  • Germs can change epigenetics to weaken the immune system, aiding the germ's survival.

Case Study

Read pages 18-20 in your booklets and answer the questions on page 22.