Epigenetic Regulation
Histones aren't just DNA packaging - they're also gene switches! Acetylation adds acetyl groups to histone tails, loosening DNA packing so genes can be transcribed. Deacetylation does the opposite, silencing genes.
DNA methylation involves adding methyl groups to cytosine bases, particularly in CpG sequences near promoter regions. Methylated genes get switched off and stay off, even through cell divisions.
Epigenetics studies how environmental factors can change gene expression without altering the actual DNA sequence. Your diet, age, and lifestyle can influence methylation patterns, affecting which genes are active.
These changes can be inherited, which explains why identical twins can become more different as they age. DNA methylation levels are highest at birth and change throughout your lifetime.
Mind-Blowing: Your grandmother's diet during pregnancy might have affected your dad's genes, which could influence your health today!