SMARCA2 Variants Leave a Domain-Specific DNA Methylation Signature in Neurodevelopmental DisordersJuly 16, 2019Our signatures are unique marks that let people know where we’ve been. It turns out that epigenetic modifiers leave their own signatures on the genome. There are between 300-400 proteins that regulate the epigenome, including readers, writers, & erasers of histone marks as well as chromatin remodelers. Genetic variants in the epigenes that encode these […]
Evasive Maneuvers! LINE-1 at the Helm Outwits Epigenetic RepressionJuly 16, 2019While the above title may conjure up images of Star Wars-esque galactic battles, the epic clash between the LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposon and repressive forces takes place on the scale of microns instead. This war has been waging in the human genome for thousands of years: L1 attempts to replicate and integrate into the genome, while […]
Shifting Sex: Social Stress Throws Epigenetics in Reverse for Female Bluehead WrassesJuly 15, 2019Have you ever run into an unexpected detour on your commute? Whether it be an ice patch, flood, or even a mudslide, mother nature can reroute even the best laid plans, but for some species, changes in the environment have much higher stakes than being late for work or that much needed vacation. In fact, […]
Mitochondrial Memes: How the Powerhouse of the Cell also Drives Epigenomic AlterationsJuly 12, 2019The appreciation of the mitochondrion as “the powerhouse of the cell” has become as culturally pervasive as some of our favorite memes; however, a powerful new study now shows that signals deriving from this double-membrane-bound ATP-generating organelle represent a major driving force behind alterations to the epigenome. A talented team of researchers from the lab […]
eBook: NeuroepigeneticsJuly 4, 2019It’s become increasing clear that epigenetic mechanisms have a unique role to play in the brain. From neurodevelopment, to memory, to brain function epigenetic mechanisms seem to be very important. These mechanisms are also frequently perturbed in neurological disorders. In this ebook, we’ve assembled summaries of research related to uncovering the many roles of epigenetics […]