Epigenetiky

Epigenetiky is the study of heritable changes in gene expression that occur without alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes, often referred to as epigenetic modifications, can influence which genes are turned on or off, and to what extent. Unlike genetic mutations, which permanently alter the DNA code, epigenetic modifications are often reversible and can be influenced by environmental factors, lifestyle, and developmental stages.

Key epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation, where methyl groups are added to DNA; histone modifications, which alter the structure of proteins that DNA wraps around; and non-coding RNAs, which can regulate gene expression. These modifications play crucial roles in normal cellular functions, such as embryonic development, cell differentiation, and maintaining genome stability.

Dysregulation of epigenetic processes has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and autoimmune conditions. Understanding epigenetiky offers potential new avenues for disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. For example, drugs that target epigenetic enzymes are being developed to treat certain cancers. The field also highlights how environmental exposures, like diet or stress, can impact health across generations, even without changing the DNA itself.