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Published on: April 5, 2018
Interindividual variation in epigenomic phenomena in humans.
Hugh J French1, Rosalind Attenborough, Kristine Hardy
1Genome Biology Program, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, GPO Box 334, Canberra City, ACT 2601, Australia.
Summary
Epigenomic variation, including DNA methylation and chromatin state, is crucial for understanding gene expression differences between individuals. This review highlights how sequence-dependent epigenomic changes contribute to complex traits.
Area of Science:
- Genomics and Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Gene expression and chromosomal processes are regulated by DNA methylation and chromatin state.
- Epigenomic phenomena contribute to individual variations in gene expression, influencing biochemical, physiological, and behavioral phenotypes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding human epigenomic variation.
- To emphasize the role of obligatory (sequence-dependent) epigenomic variation in generating interindividual differences.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature focusing on human epigenomic data.
- Analysis of studies investigating DNA methylation and chromatin state variations.
Main Results:
- Epigenomic variation is a rapidly growing field with significant implications for understanding complex traits.
- Obligatory epigenomic variation, driven by DNA sequence, is a key mechanism for interindividual differences.
Conclusions:
- Understanding individual epigenomic variation is essential for deciphering the genetic and environmental basis of complex traits.
- Sequence-dependent epigenomic variation plays a critical role in shaping human phenotypes and disease susceptibility.
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