Summary
Waves of DNA demethylation and remethylation reset the genome in germ cells and early embryos.
In depth
After fertilisation, the paternal genome is actively demethylated, the maternal passively; imprinted genes are protected. In primordial germ cells, widespread erasure resets the genome.
Primordial germ cells erase imprints and re-establish them according to sex. TET enzymes oxidise 5mC. Errors lead to imprinting disorders and infertility.
Key idea: the epigenome is reset each generation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos?
Waves of DNA demethylation and remethylation reset the genome in germ cells and early embryos.
Which area of biology covers Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos, and how advanced is it?
Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Maternal Effect Genes, Cell Fate Determination, Zygote.
Can you give an example of Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos?
Errors may lead to developmental disorders.
What should I learn before Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos?
Work through the Beginner topics in Developmental Biology first, such as Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo, then return to Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos?
The closest topics to Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos are Maternal Effect Genes, Cell Fate Determination, Zygote, Cloning. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos different from Maternal Effect Genes?
Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos: Waves of DNA demethylation and remethylation reset the genome in germ cells and early embryos. Maternal Effect Genes: Mother's mRNAs deposited in the egg, such as bicoid in Drosophila, set up the embryo's polarity. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Epigenetic Reprogramming in Embryos step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Maternal Effect Genes and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.