Population epigenetics is a field that examines the extent (degree of variation) and dynamics (change over time) of epigenetic variation in natural populations, especially in response to changing environmental conditions.[1] This emerging discipline integrates concepts from population genetics, epigenetics, and ecology to explore how epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, contribute to phenotypic diversity and adaptation in wild populations.[1] Unlike traditional population genetics, which focuses on variations in DNA sequences, population epigenetics studies heritable changes in gene expression that occur without alterations to the DNA sequence itself.[2]
Since epigenetic changes can be influenced by environmental factors, have a potentially higher rate of spontaneous mutation than genetic sequences, and may be passed down through non-Mendelian inheritance, they play a significant role in adaptation.[1] Population epigenetics therefore offers new insights into the mechanisms of evolution, disease susceptibility, and the ability of organisms to adapt to changing environments.[1][2]
References
edit- ^ a b c d Chapelle V, Silvestre F (September 2022). "Population Epigenetics: The Extent of DNA Methylation Variation in Wild Animal Populations". Epigenomes. 6 (4): 31. doi:10.3390/epigenomes6040031. PMC 9589984. PMID 36278677.
- ^ a b Greally JM (February 2017). "Population Epigenetics". Current Opinion in Systems Biology. 1: 84–89. doi:10.1016/j.coisb.2017.01.004. PMC 5373102. PMID 28367533.