PSYC23H3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Epigenome, Fetus, Asthma
Document Summary
Week 3c: early experiences can alter gene expression and affect long-term. Scientists liken the structural genome to the hardware of a computer both determine the boundaries of what"s possible, but neither works without an operating system to tell it what to do. In the genome, that operating system is called the epigenome. Like the software in an operating system, the epigenome determines which functions the genetic. This system is built over time as positive experiences, such as exposure to rich learning opportunities, or negative influences, such as environmental toxins or stressful life circumstances, leave a chemical signature on the genes. These signatures can be temporary or permanent, and both types affect how easily the genes are switched on or off. For example, even though identical twins have the same structural genomes, their different experiences result in different epigenomes. These differing experiences leave signatures on the epigenome that cause some genes to be expressed differently.
