The Role of Epigenetics in Disease Development

Katu Amina H.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International Uganda

ABSTRACT

Epigenetics, the study of heritable changes in gene expression without alterations to the DNA sequence, plays a critical role in the development of various diseases. These epigenetic mechanisms, which include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA-mediated gene silencing, regulate essential cellular processes such as differentiation, development, and tissue-specific gene expression. Environmental factors and lifestyle choices influence these epigenetic changes, often leading to disease by modifying transcriptional profiles. This paper discusses the role of epigenetics in the onset and progression of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disorders, highlighting the potential of epigenetic biomarkers for early diagnosis and the promise of epigenetic therapies. Understanding the intricate relationship between epigenetics and disease mechanisms can open new avenues for personalized treatment strategies.

Keywords: Epigenetics, DNA methylation, histone modification, disease development, cancer, cardiovascular diseases

CITE AS: Katu Amina H. (2024). The Role of Epigenetics in Disease Development. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND PHARMACY 3(2):41-44. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJPP/2024/3234144