Epigenetics

My topic is Epigenetics. Epigenetics sounds pretty confusing, but it’s really very simple. Epigenetics is the study of external changes is organisms. It has nothing to do with the genetic code. Basically, it’s external modification of DNA. Meaning, it’s all about how your environment shapes you to be. “Epi” is a prefix taken from the Greek that means “above” or “over”. Which is what Epigenetics is all about. Certain genes within you are switched on and off depending on whether or not you need to use them. For example, let’s say I had a gene within me that was for hunting down animals so I can survive. Well, that gene would probably be turned off with epigenetics because I don’t use it!

DNA methylation is an example of one of the greatest advances of Epigenetics. DNA methylation is when a methyl group is added to an organism’s DNA causing modifications to the functions of their genes and affecting gene expression. DNA methylation can be used as an option for therapy because it is reversible. DNA methylation can also silence certain genes in different cancer types, which can be a huge help. Cancer epigenetics is also another huge advance for epigenetics. It can help to detect cancer and it can help prevent it as well. I believe that cancer epigenetics are helping change the world.