In a recent study of over 1000 adults, researchers have found that using cannabis may cause changes in the human body's epigenome. Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence itself. These changes can be influenced by various factors including environmental exposures, diet, and lifestyle choices.
One of the key findings of the study is that cannabis use can lead to alterations in DNA methylation, which is essential for regulating gene expression and cell function. DNA methylation patterns are crucially maintained by proteins such as CDCA7, which researchers have found to also be involved in the regulation of transposable elements (TEs).
Inhibiting epigenetic modulators can transcriptionally reactivate transposable elements (TEs). These TE transcripts often generate unique sequences that can impact gene expression and potentially contribute to the development of various diseases, including cancer.
Speaking of cancer, it is a highly heterogeneous disease where phenotypically distinct subpopulations coexist and can be primed to different fates. Epigenetic changes play a crucial role in the development and progression of cancer, and understanding these changes can lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Retrotransposons, a type of transposable element, have been found to invade eukaryotic centromeres in cycles of repeat expansion and purging. The function of centromeric retrotransposons is still not fully understood, but their presence highlights the complex interplay between transposable elements and epigenetic regulation.
A new study reveals that the epigenetic state of neurons determines their role in memory formation. This finding could have significant implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases and developing novel treatments.
Building on their work on epigenetics of aging and transposable elements, researchers Dr. Ádám Sturm and Dr. Tibor Vellai from Eötvös Loránd University are making significant strides in unraveling the complexities of epigenetic regulation.
Chroma Medicine, Inc., a genomic medicine company, is pioneering single-course epigenetic editing therapeutics. Their innovative approach to epigenetic editing could revolutionize the treatment of various diseases and disorders.
In general, research has shown that plants can change gene expression patterns in response to environmental stimuli through epigenetic processes. This demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of epigenetic regulation across different species.
