Epigenetics

Catalog description

“Nature vs. Nurture: Are organisms a product of their DNA or their environment?” This question has plagued scientists and philosophers throughout the ages; in recent years, the field of epigenetics has begun to answer that question at the molecular level. Epigenetics explains the complex interplay between one’s environment and the expression of their genes, affected by chemical variations along chromosomes. Even more influential is the fact that some of these alterations are passed on to subsequent generations, thus beginning to explain the long-term implications of “good” vs. “bad” environment on health outcomes. This course first discusses the organization of chromosomes and how DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and the association of non-coding RNA molecules affect gene expression; it also explores how these complex statuses are determined by scientists. Finally, students explore specific epigenetic examples in scientific literature—namely, in relation to nutrition, trauma, cancer, neurological disorders, and development.