In the realm of biology and inheritance, understanding the difference between genetic and epigenetic changes is crucial. Both types of alterations play a significant role in shaping an individual’s traits and characteristics, but they operate in distinct ways.
Genetic changes refer to alterations in the sequence of DNA, the fundamental building block of life. These changes occur due to mutations, which are random errors or variations in the genetic code. Mutations can arise spontaneously or be inherited from parents. They can result in a wide range of outcomes, from negligible effects to severe genetic disorders.
On the other hand, epigenetic changes involve modifications to the structure of DNA without altering the genetic sequence itself. These modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, can influence gene expression and function. Unlike genetic changes, epigenetic alterations are reversible and can be influenced by various external factors such as diet, stress, and environmental exposures.
Genetic Changes
Genetic changes refer to alterations that occur in the DNA sequence and can be inherited from one generation to another. These changes are also known as mutations, which can be either beneficial, harmful, or have no significant effect on an individual’s health or development.
When discussing genetic changes, it’s important to understand the role of inheritance. DNA, which is the genetic material, is divided into genes that carry instructions for making proteins. These genes are passed down from parents to offspring, contributing to the traits and characteristics that are inherited.
Mutations can occur spontaneously or be caused by environmental factors such as radiation or certain chemicals. These changes can happen in different ways, including:
Single-Gene Mutations:
In single-gene mutations, a change occurs in a specific gene, altering the instructions it carries. This can lead to the production of abnormal proteins or the absence of essential proteins. Examples of single-gene mutations include cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.
Chromosomal Mutations:
Chromosomal mutations involve changes in the structure or number of chromosomes. This may result in genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, where individuals have an extra copy of chromosome 21.
It’s worth mentioning that genetic changes can interact with epigenetic modifications to influence gene expression. Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, can switch genes on or off without altering the DNA sequence. This interaction between genetic and epigenetic factors adds another layer of complexity to the understanding of gene regulation and inheritable traits.
In summary, genetic changes involve alterations in the DNA sequence that can be inherited and contribute to an individual’s traits and characteristics. These changes can occur at the single-gene or chromosomal level and can sometimes interact with epigenetic modifications to influence gene expression.
Definition of Genetic Changes
Genetic changes refer to modifications in the DNA sequence that can be inherited from one generation to another. These changes can occur through mutations, which are alterations in the genetic code. Mutations can result in the addition, deletion, or substitution of nucleotides in the DNA sequence, leading to changes in the structure and function of genes.
These modifications can also be influenced by epigenetic factors, which are mechanisms that regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself. Epigenetic changes involve modifications to histone proteins or DNA methylation, which can affect how genes are turned on or off. Unlike genetic changes, epigenetic modifications are reversible and can be influenced by environmental factors.
Genetic mutations
- Addition: In this type of mutation, one or more nucleotides are added to the DNA sequence, causing a shift in the reading frame and potentially changing the amino acid sequence.
- Deletion: Here, one or more nucleotides are removed from the DNA sequence, leading to a shift in the reading frame and potential loss of gene function.
- Substitution: This mutation involves the replacement of one nucleotide with another, which may result in a change in the amino acid sequence of the protein.
Epigenetic modifications
- Histone modifications: Histones are proteins that help package DNA into a compact form. Chemical modifications, such as acetylation or methylation, can alter the structure of histones and influence gene expression.
- DNA methylation: This involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule, which can prevent the binding of transcription factors and result in gene silencing.
Overall, genetic changes are alterations in the DNA sequence, either through mutations or epigenetic modifications, that can be inherited and passed on to future generations.
Types of Genetic Changes
Genetic changes refer to alterations that occur in the DNA sequence, which can affect an individual’s inherited traits. These changes can be divided into two broad categories: inherited genetic changes and acquired genetic changes.
Inherited genetic changes: These changes are passed down from parents to their offspring through their DNA. They can be caused by mutations or variations in the DNA sequence. Inherited genetic changes are responsible for the genetic diversity observed within a species and play a crucial role in evolution.
Acquired genetic changes: Unlike inherited genetic changes, acquired genetic changes occur during an individual’s lifetime and are not passed down to future generations. These changes can be caused by various factors such as exposure to environmental toxins, radiation, or certain chemicals. Acquired genetic changes can lead to diseases or impact an individual’s susceptibility to specific conditions.
Epigenetic changes: It is important to note that while genetic changes refer to alterations in the DNA sequence itself, epigenetic changes refer to modifications in gene expression. These changes do not alter the DNA sequence but instead affect how genes are turned on or off. One common epigenetic modification is DNA methylation, where methyl groups are attached to DNA molecules. These modifications can be influenced by factors such as environmental conditions and lifestyle choices, and can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and development.
Histone modifications: Another type of epigenetic change involves modifications of the proteins called histones, which help package DNA into a compact form. These modifications can affect how tightly the DNA is wrapped around histones, thereby influencing gene expression. Histone modifications play an essential role in regulating gene activity and can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
In summary, genetic changes refer to alterations in the DNA sequence, while epigenetic changes involve modifications to gene expression. Genetic changes can be inherited or acquired, while epigenetic changes include DNA methylation and histone modifications.
Causes of Genetic Changes
Genetic changes can occur due to various factors, including:
- Inheritance: Genetic changes can be passed down from parent to offspring through the transmission of genes.
- Mutation: Mutations are spontaneous changes in the DNA sequence that can alter the genetic information.
On the other hand, epigenetic changes, which are modifications to the gene expression rather than the genetic sequence, can also play a role in genetic changes. These changes can be caused by:
- Epigenetic modifications: Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation or histone modifications, can affect gene expression without altering the underlying genetic sequence.
Understanding the causes of genetic changes is crucial in studying the development and progression of diseases, as well as the inheritance of certain traits. Both genetic and epigenetic changes contribute to the complexity and diversity of the human genome.
Impact of Genetic Changes
Genetic changes refer to alterations in an organism’s DNA sequence. These changes can occur through various mechanisms, including mutation, which is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence.
Mutations can have both beneficial and harmful effects on an organism. Beneficial mutations can lead to the development of new traits or adaptations that increase an organism’s chances of survival and reproduction. On the other hand, harmful mutations can result in genetic disorders or diseases.
Genetic changes are heritable and can be passed on from one generation to the next. They play a crucial role in the process of evolution, as they are the raw material for natural selection to act upon.
Epigenetic Modifications
While genetic changes refer to alterations in the DNA sequence, epigenetic modifications involve changes in gene expression without any changes to the underlying DNA sequence.
Epigenetic modifications are crucial for regulating gene expression and can be influenced by various factors, such as environmental conditions and lifestyle choices. One common epigenetic modification is DNA methylation, which involves the addition of a methyl group to DNA molecules, resulting in gene silencing.
Another type of epigenetic modification is the modification of histone proteins, which are responsible for packaging DNA into a compact form. These modifications can either promote or inhibit gene expression, depending on the specific modification.
Epigenetic modifications are reversible and can be passed on from one generation to the next. They play a vital role in development, cellular differentiation, and disease processes.
Interaction Between Genetic and Epigenetic Changes
Genetic and epigenetic changes are interconnected and can influence each other. For example, genetic changes can lead to alterations in epigenetic marks, affecting gene expression patterns. Conversely, epigenetic modifications can also affect how genetic information is read and utilized by cells.
Understanding the impact of genetic and epigenetic changes is crucial for unraveling the complexities of diseases, identifying potential treatment targets, and developing personalized medicine approaches.
Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes refer to modifications in gene expression that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence. Unlike genetic changes, which are inherited through our DNA, epigenetic changes can be reversible and can be influenced by various factors such as the environment and lifestyle choices.
One of the key mechanisms of epigenetic changes is DNA methylation, which involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule. This modification can lead to the silencing of genes, preventing them from being expressed. DNA methylation patterns can be passed down through generations and play a role in determining how our genes are expressed.
Epigenetics and Inheritance
Epigenetic changes can be inherited, meaning they can be passed down from one generation to the next. This inheritance is not based on changes to the DNA sequence itself, but rather on the modifications to the DNA. These modifications can affect how genes are regulated, leading to changes in gene expression that can be passed on.
For example, if a parent has experienced certain environmental factors that lead to epigenetic changes in their DNA, these changes can be passed on to their offspring. This means that the offspring may also exhibit the same changes in gene expression, potentially influencing their traits and predispositions.
Epigenetic Changes and Disease
Epigenetic changes have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Abnormal epigenetic modifications can disrupt normal gene expression patterns and contribute to the development of these diseases.
Epigenetic changes can also occur as a result of mutations in the genes responsible for regulating them. For example, mutations in enzymes involved in DNA methylation or histone modification can lead to dysregulation of gene expression and an increased risk of disease.
Understanding epigenetic changes and their role in disease development is an active area of research. By gaining insights into these changes, scientists hope to develop new strategies for diagnosing and treating diseases.
Conclusion
Epigenetic changes are modifications to gene expression that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence. They can be inherited and are influenced by environmental factors. Understanding these changes is important for unraveling the complex mechanisms of inheritance and disease development.
Definition of Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes, also known as epigenetic modifications, are inheritable changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself. Unlike genetic changes, which result from alterations in the DNA sequence, epigenetic changes involve modifications to the structure or packaging of the DNA, which can affect how genes are turned on or off.
One common epigenetic modification is methylation, which involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule. Methylation can inhibit gene expression by preventing the binding of certain proteins that are necessary for gene activation. Alternatively, methylation can also promote gene expression by facilitating the binding of gene-activating proteins.
Epigenetic changes can occur in response to environmental factors, such as diet or exposure to toxins, as well as during normal development and aging. While some epigenetic changes are temporary and can be reversed, others can be long-lasting and even passed down from one generation to the next.
Understanding epigenetic changes is crucial for understanding how gene expression is regulated and how it can be altered in disease. Epigenetic modifications have been linked to a wide range of conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Studying epigenetic changes may provide insights into the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments.
Types of Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes refer to modifications in gene function that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. Unlike genetic changes, which are inherited and permanent, epigenetic changes are reversible and can be influenced by various factors, such as environmental conditions and lifestyle choices.
There are several types of epigenetic changes that play crucial roles in gene regulation:
1. DNA methylation: This is the most well-known and studied epigenetic modification. It involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule, which can lead to gene silencing or decreased gene expression. DNA methylation patterns can be inherited and can impact gene function across generations.
2. Histone modifications: Histones are proteins that help organize DNA into a compact structure called chromatin. Various chemical modifications, such as acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination, can occur on histones and affect gene expression. For example, histone acetylation is generally associated with gene activation, while histone methylation can either activate or repress gene expression depending on specific sites and context.
3. Non-coding RNA molecules: Non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs, can bind to target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and regulate their stability or translation into proteins. These small RNA molecules can influence gene expression by guiding enzymatic complexes to specific regions of the genome, resulting in epigenetic changes.
4. Chromatin remodeling: Chromatin remodeling refers to the alteration of the chromatin structure, making DNA regions more or less accessible to transcription factors and other regulatory proteins. This process can either facilitate or inhibit gene expression and is influenced by various epigenetic modifications, as well as ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes.
5. Genomic imprinting: Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon that leads to the expression of specific genes from either the maternal or paternal allele. This process involves modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, that occur during gamete formation and can have significant effects on development and disease susceptibility.
Understanding the different types of epigenetic changes is crucial for unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying gene regulation and the relationship between genes and the environment. These dynamic modifications can have profound impacts on our health and well-being, and studying them provides insights into potential therapeutic interventions for various diseases.
Causes of Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes are alterations to the gene activity without any changes to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes play an important role in gene regulation and can be influenced by a variety of factors.
1. Histone Modification
One of the key mechanisms that regulate gene expression is the modification of the histone proteins around which DNA is wrapped. Histones can be chemically modified, such as through acetylation or methylation, which can either activate or silence gene expression. These modifications can be inherited through cell division and can also be influenced by environmental factors.
2. DNA Methylation
Another common epigenetic mechanism is DNA methylation, which involves the addition of a methyl group to specific regions of DNA. DNA methylation can affect gene expression by preventing the binding of proteins that are necessary for gene activation. It is involved in processes such as genomic imprinting and X-chromosome inactivation. DNA methylation patterns can be influenced by various environmental factors as well as developmental stages.
Epigenetic changes can occur spontaneously or as a response to external factors. Environmental factors such as diet, exposure to toxins, and stress can all influence epigenetic modifications. Additionally, certain medications and lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can also impact epigenetic changes.
It is important to note that epigenetic changes are reversible and can be altered throughout an individual’s lifetime. Understanding the causes of epigenetic changes can provide insights into the mechanisms of gene regulation and potential ways to intervene in various diseases and disorders.
Impact of Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes refer to modifications in gene expression that do not involve alterations in the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can have a profound impact on an individual’s development and health. Unlike genetic changes, which are permanent and inherited, epigenetic modifications are reversible and can be influenced by environmental factors.
One of the key mechanisms of epigenetic regulation is through the modification of histones, proteins that help organize and package the DNA within the nucleus. Histone modifications, such as methylation or acetylation, can affect the accessibility of the DNA and regulate gene expression. For example, increased histone acetylation is often associated with gene activation, while increased histone methylation is linked to gene repression.
Another important mechanism of epigenetic regulation is DNA methylation, which involves the addition of a methyl group to cytosine residues in the DNA sequence. DNA methylation can influence gene expression by preventing the binding of transcription factors to specific gene promoter regions, effectively turning off the expression of that gene. Methylation patterns can be inherited through generations and play a crucial role in development and disease susceptibility.
Epigenetic Changes and Disease
Epigenetic changes have been implicated in a wide range of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Aberrant epigenetic modifications can lead to the dysregulation of gene expression, causing abnormal cellular functions and contributing to disease development. For example, DNA methylation changes can lead to the silencing of tumor suppressor genes, allowing for unchecked cellular growth and the formation of cancerous tumors.
Environmental Influence on Epigenetic Changes
One of the fascinating aspects of epigenetic changes is the influence of environmental factors. It has been shown that certain lifestyle choices, such as diet and exposure to toxins, can result in epigenetic modifications. These modifications can have long-lasting effects on gene expression and can even be passed on to future generations. This phenomenon, known as epigenetic inheritance, highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy environment to promote optimal epigenetic regulation.
In conclusion, epigenetic changes play a critical role in regulating gene expression and can have a profound impact on an individual’s development and health. Understanding the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation and the influence of environmental factors is crucial for unraveling the complexities of diseases and designing targeted therapeutic approaches.
Comparison of Genetic and Epigenetic Changes
Genetic and epigenetic changes refer to different types of modifications that occur in DNA. While both types of changes can influence an organism’s traits and behaviors, there are key differences between them.
Genetic Changes
Genetic changes involve alterations in the DNA sequence itself, often referred to as mutations. These changes can result from errors during DNA replication or exposure to environmental factors such as radiation or chemicals. Genetic changes can be inherited from one generation to the next and can have a significant impact on an organism’s phenotype.
Examples of genetic changes include single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions or deletions of DNA segments, and chromosomal rearrangements.
Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes, on the other hand, do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence but instead involve modifications to the gene expression patterns. These modifications can be influenced by external factors such as diet, stress, or exposure to toxins.
One common epigenetic modification is DNA methylation, which involves the addition of a methyl group to certain regions of DNA. Methylation can regulate gene expression by inhibiting the binding of transcription factors to DNA, thereby reducing the expression of specific genes.
Unlike genetic changes, epigenetic changes are generally reversible and can be influenced by environmental factors. They can also occur throughout an individual’s lifetime, meaning that they can be acquired during development or in response to environmental stimuli.
In summary, genetic changes involve alterations in the DNA sequence itself and can be inherited, while epigenetic changes involve modifications to gene expression patterns and can be influenced by external factors. Both types of changes contribute to the variability and complexity of biological systems.
Explanation of Differences
The main difference between genetic and epigenetic changes lies in the mechanism of modification and the impact on DNA inheritance. Genetic changes refer to alterations in the sequence of DNA, which can be inherited from one generation to another.
On the other hand, epigenetic changes involve modifications to the structure and function of DNA that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence itself. These modifications can influence how genes are expressed without altering the underlying genetic code.
Genetic Changes
Genetic changes occur through mutations in the DNA sequence, either through errors in DNA replication or exposure to mutagens such as radiation or certain chemicals. These changes can alter the genetic instructions encoded in the DNA, leading to variations in traits and characteristics.
Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes, on the other hand, involve modifications to the DNA and associated proteins, such as histones, that help package the DNA into the nucleus of the cell. These modifications can include DNA methylation, where a chemical group called a methyl group is added to the DNA molecule, or alterations in histone proteins that affect the accessibility of genes.
Importantly, epigenetic changes are reversible and can be influenced by environmental factors such as stress, diet, and exposure to toxins. They can also differ between cell types and tissues, leading to cellular diversity within an organism.
While genetic changes are passed on from one generation to the next through inheritance, epigenetic changes are more dynamic and can be influenced by factors both within and outside of an organism’s control.
Examples of Genetic Changes
Genetic changes can occur through various mechanisms, including mutations, modifications in DNA methylation patterns, and alterations in histone proteins. These changes can affect gene expression and have inheritable effects on future generations.
Point Mutations
Point mutations are changes in a single nucleotide base pair of DNA. They can be classified as either single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or single nucleotide variants (SNVs). SNPs are variations that are present in at least 1% of the population, while SNVs occur less frequently. Point mutations can lead to changes in protein structure and function, potentially causing genetic diseases.
Insertions and Deletions
Insertions and deletions, also known as indels, involve the addition or removal of nucleotide base pairs. These changes can cause a shift in the reading frame of a gene, resulting in a completely different protein being synthesized. Indels can have significant consequences and are often associated with genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease.
Chromosomal Aberrations
Chromosomal aberrations involve structural changes in chromosomes, such as inversions, translocations, duplications, and deletions. These changes can result in the rearrangement or alteration of genetic material, leading to various genetic disorders and diseases. For example, the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 leads to Down syndrome.
Gene Amplification and Deletion
Gene amplification involves the duplication of a gene or a segment of DNA, resulting in an increased number of copies. This can lead to overexpression of the gene and abnormal cell growth, often observed in cancer cells. On the other hand, gene deletion involves the loss of a gene or DNA segment, causing a loss of function and potentially contributing to genetic disorders.
Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes, on the other hand, involve modifications to the DNA or histone proteins that affect gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. These modifications include DNA methylation and histone modifications. Epigenetic changes can be influenced by environmental factors and can be heritable, but they do not involve changes to the actual genetic code.
| Genetic Changes | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Point Mutations | Changes in a single nucleotide base pair of DNA | Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), Single Nucleotide Variants (SNVs) |
| Insertions and Deletions | Addition or removal of nucleotide base pairs | Cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease |
| Chromosomal Aberrations | Structural changes in chromosomes | Inversions, translocations, duplications, deletions |
| Gene Amplification and Deletion | Duplication or loss of a gene or DNA segment | Cancer gene amplification, loss of gene function |
| Epigenetic Changes | Modifications to DNA or histone proteins that affect gene expression | DNA methylation, histone modifications |
Examples of Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes refer to modifications in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can occur through various mechanisms, including modifications to the DNA itself or the proteins that interact with it.
One example of an epigenetic change is DNA methylation. This process involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule, which can affect gene expression. Methylation patterns can be inherited from parent to offspring and can be influenced by environmental factors.
Another example of an epigenetic change is histone modification. Histones are proteins that help package DNA into a compact structure called chromatin. Modifications to histones, such as methylation or acetylation, can alter the accessibility of DNA and therefore impact gene expression.
Epigenetic changes can also occur through non-coding RNA molecules. These molecules, which do not code for proteins, can influence gene expression by interacting with DNA or other RNA molecules.
It is important to note that epigenetic changes are distinct from genetic mutations. While genetic mutations involve alterations to the DNA sequence itself, epigenetic changes affect how genes are expressed without changing the underlying sequence.
Overall, epigenetic changes play a crucial role in development, aging, and disease. Understanding the mechanisms behind these changes can provide valuable insights into how gene expression is regulated and potentially lead to new therapeutic approaches.
Importance of Understanding Genetic and Epigenetic Changes
Understanding the differences between genetic and epigenetic changes is crucial in order to comprehend the complexity of biological processes and their impact on human health and development. Both genetic and epigenetic changes play important roles in the regulation and expression of genes, but they operate through different mechanisms.
Genetic Changes
Genetic changes are alterations in the DNA sequence of an individual’s genetic material. These changes can occur due to mutations, which can be inherited from parents or acquired throughout an individual’s lifetime. Mutations can lead to changes in the structure or function of proteins, and they play a significant role in the development of genetic disorders and diseases.
Epigenetic Changes
Epigenetic changes, on the other hand, are modifications to the DNA structure without altering the underlying sequence. They involve the addition or removal of chemical groups, such as methyl or acetyl groups, to specific regions of the DNA molecule or to histone proteins. These modifications can influence gene expression by either activating or repressing the transcription of genes, without changing their sequence. Epigenetic changes are crucial in determining cell fate and regulating the development of complex organisms.
Methylation, a common type of epigenetic modification, involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule. Methylation patterns can be inherited from parents, but they can also be influenced by environmental factors, such as diet or exposure to toxins. Abnormal methylation patterns have been linked to various diseases, including cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Understanding both genetic and epigenetic changes is important because they interact and influence each other. Epigenetic modifications can affect the stability and expression of genetic material, while genetic changes can also impact epigenetic processes. Studying these interactions can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying disease development and progression.
| Genetic Changes | Epigenetic Changes |
|---|---|
| Alterations in DNA sequence | Modifications to the DNA structure without changing the sequence |
| Can be inherited or acquired | Can be inherited or influenced by environmental factors |
| Can lead to genetic disorders and diseases | Can influence gene expression and regulate development |
| Impact protein structure and function | Affect gene expression by activating or repressing transcription |
Q&A:
What are genetic changes?
Genetic changes refer to alterations in the sequence of DNA that occur in the genes themselves. These changes can be inherited from parents or can occur spontaneously.
How do genetic changes affect an organism?
Genetic changes can have a variety of effects on an organism. Some changes can cause genetic disorders or diseases, while others may have no noticeable effect. Additionally, genetic changes can influence traits and characteristics, such as eye color or height.
What causes genetic changes?
Genetic changes can be caused by various factors, including mutations, errors during DNA replication, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, or inherited from parents carrying a specific gene mutation.
What are epigenetic changes?
Epigenetic changes are changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence itself. These changes can be influenced by environmental factors or other external stimuli.
How do epigenetic changes differ from genetic changes?
While genetic changes involve alterations in the DNA sequence, epigenetic changes do not change the DNA sequence but rather modify how genes are expressed. Epigenetic changes can be reversible and can occur throughout an individual’s life in response to environmental factors.
What are genetic changes?
Genetic changes refer to alterations in the DNA sequence of an organism. These changes can occur spontaneously through mutations or can be inherited from parents.
What are epigenetic changes?
Epigenetic changes are modifications to genes that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence itself. They can affect gene expression, turning genes on or off, and can be influenced by environmental factors.