Epigenetics: As the DNA turns

Core Histone   (Image by Emw) 

In a delightful article titled “DNA on the Couch,” psychiatrist Deborah L. Cabaniss explains why “psychology is… our biology.”

She begins by describing how DNA “folds around” histones (cellular proteins) in a manner similar to that of thread wrapping around a spool.  In this way, six feet of tightly- coiled DNA can become compact enough to fit inside of a microscopic cell.

However, these folds tend to either expose or envelop certain genes (“sections of the DNA that determine the make-up of… the building blocks of everything in our body”).  When a gene is “open,” it can produce proteins, and when “covered” it cannot.  Therefore, the way the DNA is wrapped “around histones effectively dictates which genes… are turned ‘on.’”  These types of on-and-off aspects are known as “epigenetic changes.”

What’s really fascinating is that scientists have now discovered “that the genetic code can be modified after birth.”  In other words, histones can become “chemically modified” by lifestyle factors.  For example, parenting styles have been found to “cause profound epigenetic changes.”  Nurturing styles result in one set of genes being “turned on,” and neglectful styles produce quite 

another pattern.

These epigenetic patterns can persist well into adulthood if not intervened with.  It is encouraging to note that later-in-life nurturing can reverse the effects of early epigenetic changes. Having nurturing relationships during adulthood can thus offset some of the previous “damage.”

Resources

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/deborah-l-cabaniss-md/epigenetics_b_6435688.html?ncid=txtlnkusaolp00000592

Copyright February 23, 2015 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved