New Tool Helps Researchers Link Epigenetic Modifications to Gene Expression

March 19, 2024 Natalie Crowley

In the quest to understand the intricate interplay between genetics and the environment in disease development, scientists have devoted extensive efforts to unraveling the structure and sequence of genetic material. A key focus of this research lies in exploring epigenetic marks, the chemical modifications made on DNA or its packaging proteins (histones) that affect gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modifications serve as crucial regulators of gene activity, orchestrating when and how genes are turned on or off [more…]

DNA Methylation’s Role in Preventing Cleft Lip and Palate

March 5, 2024 Natalie Crowley

Cleft lip and palate stand out as the most prevalent craniofacial birth anomalies worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 700 newborns. Despite extensive research spanning decades, the precise etiology of most cases remains elusive, as does effective preventive measures. Understanding the causes of this abnormality has mainly focused on genetic factors, revealing numerous risk loci along the DNA, although direct causative variants are rare. Therefore, it is thought that this defect arises from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Yet, [more…]

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