Epigenetic inheritance
Epigenetic inheritance
Epigenetic inheritance (pronunciation: /ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪk ɪnˈhɛrɪtəns/) is a mechanism that allows an organism to pass on characteristics to its offspring through gene expression changes that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence.
Etymology
The term "epigenetic" is derived from the Greek word "epigenesis," which means "over and above" the genome. The concept of "inheritance" refers to the transmission of genetic traits from parents to offspring.
Definition
Epigenetic inheritance involves changes in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence itself but by chemical modifications to the DNA molecule or to the proteins with which DNA associates. These modifications can be passed on to subsequent generations.
Mechanisms
There are several mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA interference. These mechanisms can influence gene expression and contribute to cellular diversity.
DNA methylation
DNA methylation is a process by which methyl groups are added to the DNA molecule, which can change the activity of a DNA segment without changing the sequence.
Histone modification
Histone modification involves changes to histone proteins that DNA is wrapped around. These modifications can alter gene expression.
RNA interference
RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules.
Related terms
- Genetic inheritance: The process by which genetic information is passed on from parent to offspring.
- Epigenetics: The study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.
- Epigenome: The record of the chemical changes to the DNA and histone proteins of an organism.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epigenetic inheritance
- Wikipedia's article - Epigenetic inheritance
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