Gene Expression and Epigenetics

Question 1

What is the difference between Nature and Nurture?

Answer 1

Nature is genetics (DNA)—traits inherited from parents.

Nurture is environmental influences—things like diet, upbringing, and experiences that shape us.

Question 2

What are examples of Nature (Genetics)?

Answer 2

Natural hair & eye color

Facial & body structure

Inherited diseases

Question 3

What are examples of Nurture (Environment)?

Answer 3

Scars and weight changes

Personality and values

Some diseases (like Type 2 diabetes due to diet and lifestyle)

Question 3

What is Gene Expression?

Answer 3

Gene expression is the process by which information stored in DNA is used to create proteins, which then determine a cell’s function and characteristics. However, not all genes are active all the time. Some genes can be “turned on” (expressed) or “turned off” (silenced), depending on various factors.

Question 4

What is Epigenetics?

Answer 4

Epigenetics is the study of how environment and lifestyle can change gene expression without changing the actual DNA sequence. This means that diet, stress, and exposure to toxins can affect which genes are activated or silenced.

Question 5

How does the environment affect genes?

Answer 5

Smoking or pollution can turn off protective genes and increase disease risk.

Healthy eating & exercise can activate genes that improve metabolism.

Stress or trauma can affect brain-related genes, influencing mental health.