Animal Epigenetics
Animal epigenetics refers to the study of changes in gene expression in animals that are not caused by alterations in the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can be influenced by various factors such as environmental conditions, diet, stress, and aging. Epigenetic modifications can impact how genes are turned on or off, ultimately affecting an animal's traits, health, and development. Researchers in this field investigate mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA regulation to better understand how epigenetic changes contribute to the diversity and adaptability of animals in their natural environments.