Scientists Unveil Epigenome Map
Scientists Unveil Epigenome Map – The epigenome is the second set of genetic code or chemical tags that are attached to DNA, the inherited genetic code that makes and sustains life. Epigenomes don’t alter genes but determine which genes are turned on or off, which can be particularly useful in understanding how diseases are caused and how to design precise treatments for them.
There is growing evidence that epigenomes play a role in diseases like cancer, autism, Alzheimer’s and heart disease, and that these can be disrupted by ageing and lifestyle choices like smoking, diet, and exercise. Epigenomes are one reason why identical twins, for instance, who have identical DNA, do not always develop the same genetic diseases.
According to experts, scientists will have to figure out not only how epigenomes affect DNA but also how people’s lifestyles affect their epigenomes, making the process of incorporating epigenetics into precision medicine complicated.
The new papers published in the journal, Nature, described the epigenomes of 111 different types of cell, including brain, muscle, liver, skin and fetal cells.
Category: News
