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Epigenetics

Matt Jarvis

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The background to epigenetics

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What are epigenetics?
A modern definition of epigenetics involves the idea that, while genes are
inherited, they only influence individual development if they are expressed.
Gene expression depends on a range of factors including those in the environment

Genes instruct Epigenetic influences

cells how to affect how and
function when cells read
the genes

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How this works on a chemical level

DNA strands have tails. Whether the genetic material on this strand can be
read is affected by two main factors acting on this tail.

Methylation
• Adding a methyl group prevents the genes being read and effectively
‘turns off’ the genes.

Acetylation
• Adding an acetyl group makes a DNA strand accessible and effectively
turns it on.

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The epigenetics of intelligence

We have a good idea about one epigenetic influence on IQ

Remember that intelligence is a complex issue. Epigenetic influence is just

one part of a very complicated puzzle.

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Transgenerational epigenetics

The idea that epigenetic changes can be transmitted from one generation
to the next is controversial.
• There is clear evidence that transgenerational epigenetic change occurs
in plans and insects.
• There is, however, no direct evidence in humans. Nevertheless, it is
consistent with human findings, such as a reduction in IQ of the
grandchildren of famine survivors.

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Conclusions

• Epigenetics is the study of the ways in which genes and environment

interact.
• This is a significant step forward from the traditional nature–nurture
debate.
• We understand something of the mechanisms by which genes are
‘switched on and off’ by environmental factors.
• There is evidence that some human characteristics, such as intelligence,
are affected by epigenetic mechanisms.
• There is some limited evidence to suggest that epigenetic change can be
transmitted to future generations.

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