What is the Role of Epigenetics in Gene Regulation and Epidemiology?
Epigenetics involves changes in gene expression that do not alter the underlying DNA sequence. These changes are often mediated by mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. Epigenetic modifications can be influenced by environmental factors, such as diet, stress, and exposure to toxins, making them a crucial area of study in epidemiology. Understanding epigenetic regulation can provide insights into how environmental factors contribute to disease risk and help develop strategies for prevention and intervention.
