Epigenetics refers to how your behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way your genes work. Unlike genetic changes (mutations), epigenetic changes are reversible and do not change the sequence of DNA bases, but they can change how your body reads a DNA sequence.

Epigenetics is a field of study that explores how environmental factors and personal behaviors can influence gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. These changes are achieved through mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA-associated silencing, which impact how genes are turned on or off.

Unlike genetic mutations, which are permanent and can result in lasting changes to an organism's DNA, epigenetic modifications are often reversible. This means that various external factors, including diet, lifestyle, stress, and exposure to toxins, can lead to changes in gene activity, potentially influencing health and disease states.

Research has shown that epigenetic changes can be inherited, suggesting that the life experiences of one generation can affect the gene expression of subsequent generations. This aspect of epigenetics highlights the complexity of genetics and the interplay between hereditary factors and environmental influences.

Understanding epigenetics opens up possibilities for targeted interventions and lifestyle changes that could promote better health outcomes by modifying how genes are expressed in response to external stimuli. As this field continues to evolve, it offers insights into the mechanisms behind various diseases and the potential for developing epigenetic therapies in medical science.

Epigenetics is the study of how environmental factors and behaviors can alter how genes are expressed without changing the DNA sequence.

Epigenetic changes can affect a person's health and may be passed down to their children. 

The study of how environmental factors and behaviors can alter how genes are expressed

Epigenetic marks are chemical markers that attach to DNA and regulate whether genes are turned on or off

Epigenetic changes can affect a person's risk of disease, including cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and substance use disorders

Epigenetic changes can occur as part of normal development and aging, or due to exposure to environmental factors like diet, exercise, drugs, and chemicals

Epigenetic changes are reversible and do not change the sequence of DNA bases