Epigenetics is a generalized term used to describe DNA modifications regulating gene expression. The individual bases of your genetic code remain unchanged, but chemical changes to the DNA or DNA packaging structures result in genes being turned on or off. These effects can also be inherited for generations to come.
1) If you want to sound smart, throw these words into your conversation: “methylation”, “acetlyation”, “chromatin remodeling”, “imprinting”.
2) To help you out, try this sentence on your friends next time this hot topic comes up in conversation: “We thought about buying that house under the high power lines, but decided we really can’t afford any genomic imprinting defects for our future children. You know, don’t want to mess with our methylation status. Yeah, shame about that acetylation. We’d have to do some remodeling of the house too, but not at the expense of chromatin remodeling, if you know what I mean! *wink wink*”
To honor our studies in epigenetics, I have selected this song for your enjoyment:
Express Yourself by Madonna
Thanks for the song—-could be applied to a variety of people in a variety of ways–love your blog!