Epigenetics is the study of changes in gene activity which are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence.[1] It is the study of gene expression, the way genes bring about their phenotypic effects.[2] An organism's cells are, genetically, nearly identical. There are, however, certain occurrences that can change how genes are expressed or suppressed.[3]
These changes in gene activity may stay for the rest of the cell's life. They may last for many generations of cells, through cell divisions. However, there is no change in the underlying DNA sequence of the organism.[4] Instead, non-hereditary factors cause the organism's genes to behave (express themselves) differently. Epigenetics works by mechanisms such as DNA methylation, where a gene expression may be suppressed. [5][6]
Epigenetic factors may last into adulthood.[7]
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