Epigenetics refers to non-DNA altering changes or modifications in gene functions that can influence the way an organism behaves. These modifications do not change the DNA sequence itself but can affect how genes are expressed.
Think of epigenetics as a light switch that can turn genes on or off. Just like how flipping a switch controls whether a light bulb is on or off, epigenetic modifications control whether certain genes are activated or silenced.
Histone Modification: The addition or removal of chemical groups from the proteins called histones around which DNA is wrapped, influencing gene expression.
DNA Methylation: The addition of a methyl group to specific regions of DNA, often resulting in gene silencing.
Chromatin Remodeling: Changes to the structure of chromatin, which affects accessibility and availability of genes for transcription.
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