epigenetic

American  

[ep-i-juh-net-ik] / ˌɛp ɪ dʒəˈnɛt ɪk /

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.

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epigenetic British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• epigenetically adverb

Etymology

Origin of epigenetic

epi- + genetic

Example Sentences

Chitwood has invested in a company working on epigenetic reprogramming, a process that aims to restore cells to a youthful state by pulling a specific combination of genetic levers.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

For one thing, genes themselves aren’t changed by epigenetic experiences; rather, certain pre-existing genes are turned on or off.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Previous research has shown that ongoing psychological distress can influence biological aging through epigenetic changes, which are shifts in how genes are turned on or off.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026

Women who reported higher levels of anxiety about growing older showed signs of faster epigenetic aging based on the DunedinPACE clock.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026

Ay, the aurelia-born image of grace sees a difference when it looks from the sun to the epigenetic thing which He raises out of corruption.

From Wilson's Tales of the Borders and of Scotland, Volume XXIII by Wilson, John Mackay