epigenetic

[ep-i-juh-net-ik]

adjective

1. Biology.,  of or relating to epigenesis, or the successive differentiation of undifferentiated cells in an embryo.

2. Genetics.,  noting or pertaining to epigenetics, specifically, the process by which the expression of genetic information is modified on a molecular level without a change to the DNA sequence.

   the epigenetic inheritance of longevity.

epigenetic

/ ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to epigenesis

2. denoting processes by which heritable modifications in gene function occur without a change in the sequence of the DNA

Other Word Forms

• epigenetically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of epigenetic¹

epi- + genetic

Example Sentences

To that point, racial battle fatigue has been shown to lead to premature aging through epigenetic processes.

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In one chapter, Pember explores epigenetic research into trauma, the hypothesis that trauma responses might be inherited even without changes in the DNA sequence.

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Analysis of cheek swabs taken from pregnant women revealed a potential epigenetic biomarker for preeclampsia, a potentially life-threatening condition that often leads to preterm births.

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Ma believes that these "epigenetic" changes are working hand-in-hand with the alternative transcription initiation sites in gene expression.

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It's not currently possible to change the relevant epigenetic marks in the cell nucleus with drugs and thus erase the epigenetic memory.

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