Epigenetics has gained researchers attention from around the globe as it offers novel hope in understanding the molecular mechanisms that may reveal the cause of diseases, abnormalities, disorders and even behavior. It is the manifestation of changes in gene expressions without any modification of genotype. Basically, three processes of DNA methylation, histone protein modifications, and non-coding RNA associated gene silencing are considered to play the significant role in sustenance of epigenetic changes. Environmental stresses, lifestyle, various physical factors are supposed to play role in causing such phenotypic changes that inherit to one or few successive generations. Hypomethylation and hypermethylation via methyl groups on organic molecules are supposed to play the most significant role in selection of protein synthesis for a defined cell and thus their final outcome in the form of an individual’s characteristics. Methylation on DNA can also occur via external factors which if understood can aid in reversing the effects (boon in cases of fatal diseases).
Studies suggest that the happenings in one’s surroundings can embark more than just deciding their behavioral pattern i.e. it can leave imprints to be passed onto next generation without actually modifying the genetic code in any aspect. The parental care, stressful situations, bullying, economic conditions are few of many experiences that can regulate one’s personality by addition/ deletion of methyl groups at molecular level. Thus, it is quite possible that a child’s behavior can be very similar to her great grandmother subjected to epigenetic succession.
When considering the birth of a newborn, it is not only the genes inherited from mother & father or only the mother’s lifestyle during gestation that matters, but the lifestyle of both parents since a long time decides on baby’s health and responsive behavior. Studies suggest that mother’s nutrition prior to and while pregnancy can influence methylation in the offspring. Epigenetic markings takes the credit of doing so by inheriting the positives and negatives gained from the life experiences from one generation to another. Earlier notions of genes being the sole element of inheritance is subtly modified as behavioral patterns are not only dependent on inherited DNA but surrounding factors too.
