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Epigenetic Regulation

Epigenetic Regulation

Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.

Epigenetic Regulation

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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.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Author Spotlight: RNAi Inheritance and ChIP in C. elegans

Author Spotlight: RNAi Inheritance and ChIP in C. elegans

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Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance.

Ana Bošković¹, Oliver J Rando¹

¹Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA;

Annual Review of Genetics

|August 31, 2018

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Epigenetic information, beyond DNA, can be inherited across generations in multicellular organisms. This review covers model systems, causes, and molecular mechanisms of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance via the germline.

Keywords:

development epigenetics germ cells transgenerational inheritance

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Area of Science:

Genetics and Epigenetics
Developmental Biology
Molecular Biology

Background:

Genomic DNA is the primary basis of biological inheritance.
Epigenetic information can also be transmitted across generations.
Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is a key area of study in multicellular organisms.

Purpose of the Study:

To review major model systems for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in multicellular organisms.
To discuss the origins of epivariation, including stochastic and induced changes.
To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying epigenetic inheritance, particularly in the germline.

Main Methods:

Literature review of model systems for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
Survey of examples of epivariation and its induction.
Discussion of molecular pathways and germline epigenome features.

Main Results:

Identified major model systems for studying germline epigenetic inheritance.
Cataloged instances of stochastic and induced epivariation.
Highlighted molecular mechanisms and unique aspects of the germline epigenome.

Conclusions:

Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is a significant biological phenomenon.
Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for comprehending inheritance beyond DNA.
The germline epigenome possesses unique features that facilitate epigenetic inheritance.