... the term epigenetics refers to changes in phenotype (appearance) or gene expression caused by mechanisms other than changes in the underlying DNA sequence, hence the name epi- (Greek: επί- over, above) -genetics. These changes may remain through cell divisions for the remainder of the cell's life and may also last for multiple generations. However, there is no change in the underlying DNA sequence of the organism;[1] instead, non-genetic factors cause the organism's genes to behave (or "express themselves") differently.........
Comments: Have functional optometrists been practicing "epigenetics" since the 1930's by altering the environment so that gene expression changed resulting in a better functioning visual system? DM
Hi Dr. Maino,
ReplyDeleteI love that you have brought up the topic of Epigenetics and I would agree that behavioral optometrists are practitioners of such. I am reading the Biology of Belief by Dr. Bruce Lipton and I recommend this read to any students studying genetics (or optometry or well...any subject at all...given our genes-obsessed culture)! Best, Rachel Cooper