Epigenetics
Definition
Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes may last through cell divisions for the remainder of the cell's life and may also last for multiple generations without any change in the underlying DNA sequence.
Analogy
Imagine if our genome (the book) was written with invisible ink. Epigenetics would be like using a special light to reveal certain parts of text while keeping others hidden. This doesn't change what's written; it just controls what can be seen and read by our cells.
Related terms
Methylation: A process by which methyl groups are added to DNA molecules; methylation can change the activity of a DNA segment without changing its sequence.
Histone modification: Changes made to histone proteins that affect their interaction with DNA and thus influence gene regulation.
Gene silencing: The regulation of gene expression where a gene is prevented from being expressed.
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