Epigenetics: How Environment Shapes Our Genes
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4.1 • 11 Ratings
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- $12.99
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- $12.99
Publisher Description
Goodbye, genetic blueprint. . . . The first book for general readers on the game-changing field of epigenetics.
The burgeoning new science of epigenetics offers a cornucopia of insights—some comforting, some frightening. For example, the male fetus may be especially vulnerable to certain common chemicals in our environment, in ways that damage not only his own sperm but also the sperm of his sons. And it’s epigenetics that causes identical twins to vary widely in their susceptibility to dementia and cancer. But here’s the good news: unlike mutations, epigenetic effects are reversible. Indeed, epigenetic engineering is the future of medicine.
Customer Reviews
Very interesting perspective
The author uses many interesting relatable examples. The view of genes as "actors" in, rather than "directors" of cellular activity is represents a substantial shift in what we know about how life works. It also helps to answer the question of nature vs. nurture rather elegantly...the answer being that clearly environment influences gene activity both in the short and long term. Definitely an interesting read for anyone who wants to elaborate their understanding of DNA. Worth 2 reads for sure because it gets a bit technical in parts. May be a difficult read for those without a background in the biological sciences.