Epigenetic Lamarck

"We conclude that epigenetic mutational bias challenges the pevailing paradigm that mutation is a DIRECTIONLESS force in evolution. Our discovery yields a new account of the forces driving patterns of natural variation, CHALLENGING a LONG-STANDING PARADIGM regarding the randomness of mutation." Nature 1/22 Epigenetics, the study of heritable changes in gene expression that occur without altering the underlying DNA sequence, plays a crucial role in maintaining genomic stability and mitigating mutations . While mutations are inevitable due to errors in DNA replication and exposure to environmental mutagens, epigenetic mechanisms act as a buffer, minimizing the occurrence and impact of these genetic alterations. This essay explores the various ways in which epigenetics contributes to the reduction of mutations, encompassing DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA regulation. DNA Methylation: A Silencing Guardian DNA methylation, the ad...

The neo-Darwinian model, which has dominated evolutionary biology for decades, posits that evolution is primarily driven by genetic mutations and natural selection. However, emerging research in epigenetics is challenging this conventional view, suggesting that environmental factors play a more significant role in shaping the heritable traits of organisms. This essay delves into the ways in which epigenetics is redefining our understanding of evolution and potentially replacing neo-Darwinism as the leading paradigm. What is Epigenetics? Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that are not caused by alterations in the DNA sequence itself. These changes are often mediated by modifications to the DNA molecule or associated proteins, such as methylation or histone acetylation. Epigenetic modifications can be influenced by a wide range of environmental factors, including diet, stress, and exposure to toxins. Crucially, these modifications can be inherited across generat...