epigenetics

[ ep-i-juh-net-iks ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. Genetics. the study of the process by which genetic information is translated into the substance and behavior of an organism: specifically, the study of the way in which the expression of heritable traits is modified by environmental influences or other mechanisms without a change to the DNA sequence.

epigenetics

/ ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪks /

noun

1. the study of heritable changes that occur without a change in the DNA sequence

epigenetics

/ ĕp′ĭ-jə-nĕt′ĭks /

1. The study of heritable changes in gene expression caused by factors such as DNA methylation rather than by a change in the sequence of base pairs in DNA itself.

Word History and Origins

Origin of epigenetics¹

Coined in 1942 by English biologist Conrad H. Waddington (1905–75); blend of epigenesis and genetics

Example Sentences

Epigenetics, which is where genes are only activated in specific environments, complicate things too.

From Singularity Hub 

Epigenetics is an extremely fluid dance, with multiple chemical components latching onto or falling off of DNA strands.

From Singularity Hub 

At their root is epigenetics, a mechanism “above” DNA to regulate how our genes are expressed.

From Singularity Hub 

Thanks to epigenetics’ “enhancing” power, CRISPRoff lets researchers go big.

From Singularity Hub 

A reliable CRISPR tool for epigenetics is insanely powerful.

From Singularity Hub 

This process, known as epigenetics, involves the addition of small chemical tags known as methyl groups to the DNA double helix.

From The Daily Beast