A UC San Francisco-led study has identified signatures of ethnicity in the genome that appear to reflect an ethnic group’s shared culture and environment, rather than its common genetic ancestry.The study examined DNA methylation — an “annotation” of DNA that alters gene expression without changing the genomic sequence itself — in a group of diverse Latino children. Methylation is one type of “epigenetic mark” that previous research has shown can be either inherited or altered by life experience. The researchers identified several hundred differences in methylation associated with either Mexican or Puerto Rican ethnicity, but discovered that only three-quarters of the epigenetic difference between the two ethnic subgroups could be accounted for by differences in the children’s genetic ancestry. The rest of the epigenetic differences, the authors suggest, may reflect a biological stamp made by the different experiences, practices, and environmental exposures distinct to the two ethnic subgroups.
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Epigenetics
Epigenetics seems like the new magic subject in the world of medical science. In simplified terms, epigenetics is the study of biological mechanisms that will switch genes on and off. These biological mechanism are brought through by hereditary, cultural, race, dietary reasons and many more. Article below explains it pretty well.
A Super Brief and Basic Explanation of Epigenetics for Total Beginners
The study of epigenetics seem to correlate our genes with multiple medical and behavioural problems in us such as Cancer, Mental retardation disorders, Immunity & related disorders, Neuropsychiatric disorders, Pediatric syndromes.
Article Epigenetics fundamentals
This involves in a wide array of problems and diseases such as addictions, depressions and cancer. The good news however is that it is reversible!
- 3 Key Facts About Depression And Brain Damage: The Good News, Backed By Science
- Using epigenetics to help the immune system fight ovarian cancer
Epigenetics also reverses aging!!?? What?
Article: Aging Is Reversible—at Least in Human Cells and Live Mice
My knowledge of this subject is just at it's surface and may not be accurate. My first impression of epigenetics is of fascination and hope. If you wish to know more check out these Steemians:
