Epigenetics

Mr. Anderson discusses epigenetics, exploring the interplay between nature and nurture. He explains how identical twins can have different traits due to environmental factors, using the agouti mice study as an example. The video covers the concept of gene expression and differentiation in stem cells, and introduces mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone acetylation. It also highlights the role of microRNA and the importance of the epigenome in health, emphasizing that changes in lifestyle can affect gene expression and be passed to future generations.

What is the main question that epigenetics seeks to address?

• How do plants adapt to different climates?

• Why do some animals have more offspring than others?

• Are traits determined by genes or environment?

• How do identical twins have different fingerprints?

What was the significant finding from the agouti mice study?

• Mice can change color based on their diet.

• Genetically identical mice can express different traits.

• Mice can learn new behaviors from their environment.

• Mice with the agouti mutation live longer.

What is the role of DNA methylation in gene expression?

• It permanently turns genes on.

• It temporarily turns genes off.

• It permanently turns genes off.

• It temporarily turns genes on.

How does histone acetylation affect DNA?

• It loosens DNA around histones, allowing gene expression.

• It tightens DNA around histones, preventing gene expression.

• It removes histones from DNA.

• It changes the DNA sequence.

What is the function of microRNA in gene expression?

• It blocks the ribosome from translating proteins.

• It enhances the production of proteins.

• It increases the number of ribosomes.

• It changes the DNA sequence.

Why is it important to take care of your epigenome?

• It controls your blood type.

• It affects which genes are expressed and can be passed to offspring.

• It determines your eye color.

• It influences your height.

How can lifestyle factors influence the epigenome?

• They can increase the number of chromosomes.

• They can alter gene expression patterns.

• They can eliminate genetic mutations.

• They can change the DNA sequence.