Perceptions of epigenetics

Nature. 2007 May 24;447(7143):396-8. doi: 10.1038/nature05913.

Abstract

Geneticists study the gene; however, for epigeneticists, there is no obvious 'epigene'. Nevertheless, during the past year, more than 2,500 articles, numerous scientific meetings and a new journal were devoted to the subject of epigenetics. It encompasses some of the most exciting contemporary biology and is portrayed by the popular press as a revolutionary new science--an antidote to the idea that we are hard-wired by our genes. So what is epigenetics?

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Methylation
  • Environment
  • Epigenesis, Genetic / genetics*
  • Female
  • Genetics / trends*
  • Heredity
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mice