July 2010

Science - 2nd July 2010

The Seductive Allure of Behavioral Epigenetics
Greg Miller

Recent work suggests that so-called epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation, which alter the activity of genes without changing their DNA sequence, could explain how early life experiences can leave an indelible mark on the brain and influence both behavior and physical health later in life. These effects may even carry over to subsequent generations.

February 2010

Time for the epigenome

On January 25-26 2010 in Paris, the International Human Epigenome Consortium (IHEC) was launched. The global consortium brings together the best epigenetics experts from around the world, and aims as one of its first goals to map 1000 reference epigenomes within a decade. Mapping the human genome, a project that began in 1990 seemed daunting enough, but the epigenome brings with it additional challenges due to its dynamic and reversible nature. It is now clear that unravelling the human genetic code has not provided all of the keys required for solving many diseases. However, as our knowledge about the role of epigenetics in health and disease expands, and the complexity of biology is realised, IHEC is armed with the tools and expertise necessary to address these complex biological questions.

The IHEC meeting was attended by top international epigenetics scientists, including some from Australia, with Professor Sue Clark from the Garvan Institute speaking on behalf of the Australian Epialliance, and also on the inclusion of epigenomes and envronmental influence in the scope of the IHEC objectives.

 

Read more from Nature News - "Project set to map marks on genome - Consortium sets sights on the differences that make us different."