epigenetics
[ ep-i-juh-net-iks ]
/ ˌɛp ɪ dʒəˈnɛt ɪks /
noun (used with a singular verb)
Genetics.
the study of the process by which genetic information is translated into the substance and behavior of an organism: specifically, the study of the way in which the expression of heritable traits is modified by environmental influences or other mechanisms without a change to the DNA sequence.
Origin of epigenetics
1942; coined by Conrad H. Waddington, 1905–75, British biologist; blend of
epigenesis and
genetics
Words nearby epigenetics
epigastrocele,
epigeal,
epigene,
epigenesis,
epigenetic,
epigenetics,
epigenome,
epigenomics,
epigenous,
epigeous,
epiglottic cartilage
Example sentences from the Web for epigenetics
This process, known as epigenetics, involves the addition of small chemical tags known as methyl groups to the DNA double helix.
British Dictionary definitions for epigenetics
epigenetics
/ (ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪks) /
noun (functioning as sing)
the study of heritable changes that occur without a change in the DNA sequence