epigenetics
/ˌep.ɪ.dʒəˈnet.ɪks/ IELTSAcademic
noun
The study of changes in how genes work without changing the DNA sequence itself. These changes can affect how cells act and can sometimes be passed on.
- Epigenetics helps explain why twins can become different over time.
- Scientists are studying epigenetics in cancer research.
- Diet and stress may affect epigenetics.
Adinary Nuance
Epigenetics is not the same as genetics. Genetics is about the DNA sequence you inherit, while epigenetics is about how that DNA is turned on or off. In simple terms, genetics is the code; epigenetics is part of the control system. Researchers often use epigenetics when they want to talk about gene activity, not gene structure.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- biểu sinh học
- Spanish
- epigenética
- Chinese
- 表观遗传学
- Japanese
- エピジェネティクス
- Korean
- 후성유전학
Etymology
Epigenetics comes from Greek and was formed in modern science in the 20th century. It combines "epi-" meaning "on" or "above" with "genetics."
Common phrases
epigenetics researchepigenetics studiesepigenetics and healthepigenetics changes
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is epigenetics the same as genetics?
- No. Genetics is about the DNA itself. Epigenetics is about how genes are switched on or off.
- Is epigenetics a common word in academic writing?
- Yes. It is common in biology, medicine, and health research, but less common in everyday speech.
- Can epigenetics changes be inherited?
- Sometimes, yes. Some epigenetic changes can affect future generations, but not all do.
- How do I use epigenetics in a sentence?
- Use it as a noun: "Researchers are studying epigenetics in disease."