CategoryHierarchies.com

Epigenetics refers to heritable changes in gene expression and function that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence itself. It encompasses several mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA-associated gene silencing, which collectively regulate chromatin structure and accessibility, thereby influencing transcriptional activity. In the context of mycology, epigenetics plays a crucial role in the development, differentiation, virulence, and stress response of fungi, including pathogenic species that impact human health and agriculture. By modulating gene expression profiles, epigenetic modifications can drive phenotypic plasticity, allowing fungi to adapt to diverse environmental conditions and evade host immune responses. Thus, understanding the epigenetic landscape in fungi can provide valuable insights into their biology and inform strategies for disease management and control.