How epigenetics impacts on human diseases

Epigenetics is a rapidly growing field of biology that studies the changes in gene expression that are not due to alterations in the DNA sequence but rather the chemical modifications of DNA and its associated proteins. Epigenetic mechanisms can profoundly influence gene expression, cell differentiation, tissue development, and disease susceptibility. Understanding epigenetic changes is essential to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the increasingly recognized role of environmental and lifestyle factors in health and disease and the intergenerational transmission of phenotypes. Recent studies suggest epigenetics may be critical in various diseases, from cardiovascular disease and cancer to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Epigenetic modifications are potentially reversible and could provide new therapeutic avenues for treating these diseases using epigenetic modulators. Moreover, epigenetics provide insight into disease pathogenesis and biomarkers for disease diagnosis and risk stratification. Nevertheless, epigenetic interventions have the potential for unintended consequences and may potentially lead to increased risks of unexpected outcomes, such as adverse drug reactions, developmental abnormalities, and cancer. Therefore, rigorous studies are essential to minimize the risks associated with epigenetic therapies and to develop safe and effective interventions for improving human health. This article provides a synthetic and historical view of the origin of epigenetics and some of the most relevant achievements.

Automated summary

Epigenetics is a rapidly growing field of biology that explores the impact of chemical modifications on DNA and associated proteins, which can profoundly influence gene expression, tissue development, and disease susceptibility. Understanding epigenetic changes is crucial for comprehending the role of environmental and lifestyle factors in health and disease, as well as intergenerational transmission of traits. Epigenetics has shown to be critical in various diseases and offers potential therapeutic avenues, but also comes with risks and unintended consequences that necessitate rigorous research for safe and effective interventions. This article provides a synthetic and historical overview of epigenetics and its significant achievements.