These photos are in part collected here for my own records, but I hope they can also be educational when others are pondering the changes they may see between chick fluff and adult feathers. They grow up so quickly...
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Born on St. Paddy's Day, I was very tempted to keep this little one, my first successful 2020 hatchling.
Epigenetics: A Primer
Epigenetic factors refer to external influences that can affect gene expression and function without altering the underlying DNA sequence. These factors can modify how genes are "read" or interpreted by cells, leading to changes in cellular processes and ultimately impacting an organism's traits and health.
Epigenetic mechanisms include processes such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA regulation. These mechanisms can influence gene expression by either promoting or inhibiting the transcription of specific genes.
Examples of epigenetic factors include:
Environmental Exposures: Factors such as diet, stress, toxins, pollutants, and medications can influence epigenetic modifications, potentially altering gene expression patterns and affecting health outcomes.
Lifestyle Choices: Behaviors such as exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and sleep patterns can impact epigenetic regulation, influencing susceptibility to diseases and disorders.
Developmental Experiences: Early life experiences, including prenatal conditions, maternal care, and early nutrition, can induce epigenetic changes that have lasting effects on health and development.
Aging: Epigenetic changes accumulate over time, and aging is associated with alterations in DNA methylation patterns and histone modifications, which may contribute to age-related diseases and decline.
Epigenetic factors play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and shaping an organism's phenotype, and understanding their influence is essential for unraveling the complexities of health and disease.
