Epigenetics and metabolism in 2011: Epigenetics, the life-course and metabolic disease

Peter D Gluckman1

  • 1Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand. pd.gluckman@auckland.ac.nz

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Epigenetic changes alter the physical structure of the DNA without changing the genetic sequence and often regulate whether genes are turned on or off. This regulation ensures that each cell produces only proteins necessary for its function. For example, proteins that promote bone growth are not produced in muscle cells. Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
X-chromosome...
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