Intergenerational Transfer of Epigenetic Information in Sperm
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605.
Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine
|January 24, 2016
Summary
Epigenetic inheritance, information beyond DNA, influences diverse biological processes. Mammalian sperm can transmit epigenetic information across generations, including environmental influences.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Epigenetic inheritance influences various biological processes, including plant flowering and human cancers.
- Epigenetic information transfer occurs within multicellular organisms and via gametes.
- Mammalian sperm are increasingly recognized as carriers of epigenetic information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence for epigenetic information carriers in mammalian sperm.
- To explore the intergenerational transfer of environmental information via gametes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on epigenetic inheritance in mammals.
- Analysis of evidence for epigenetic factors in sperm.
- Exploration of environmental influences on epigenetic transmission.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports the presence of epigenetic information carriers in mammalian sperm.
- Intergenerational transfer of environmentally acquired epigenetic information is a developing field.
- Epigenetic mechanisms play a role in transmitting information beyond the DNA sequence.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic inheritance is a significant biological mechanism.
- Mammalian sperm play a crucial role in intergenerational epigenetic transmission.
- Environmental factors can influence offspring epigenetics via sperm, impacting health and development.
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