Significance of Epigenetics

Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence. It examines how environmental factors and lifestyle can influence the expression of new traits in various organisms, including plants and humans. This field addresses important health conditions like PCOS and stroke risk by focusing on mechanisms such as DNA methylation. Notably, epigenetic changes can also impact phenotype and immune cell function, making them a vital area of study in biology and medicine.

Synonyms: Genetic regulation, Genetic modification, Gene expression regulation, Molecular genetics, Phenotypic variation, Heritable changes, Gene regulation, Dna modification, Chromatin remodeling, Genetic expression, Methylation, Histone modification

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Epigenetics'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Epigenetics may signify the belief that external conditions and experiences shape one's life and identity (phenotype) without changing intrinsic qualities (genotype), reflecting the interplay between the environment and individual spiritual evolution.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

(1) This is a newer concept referring to the changes in phenotype without any alterations in the genotype, influenced by various factors like the environment or diseased conditions.[1]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

The concept of Epigenetics in scientific sources

Science Books

Epigenetics studies modifications in gene expression without changing the DNA sequence, emphasizing its relevance in prenatal development, drug responses, and the influence of environmental factors and lifestyle on genetic function.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

(1) This is a biological process linking the environment and genetics, and its dysregulation is involved in the pathophysiology of many complex diseases including essential hypertension.[2] (2) This refers to the study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.[3] (3) The study of changes in gene expression that are not caused by alterations in the DNA sequence itself, such as DNA methylation, and are relevant to stroke risk.[4]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.