Summary
Genome-wide mapping of DNA methylation and histone marks that regulate gene activity.
In depth
ChIP-seq maps histone marks and transcription factors; bisulphite sequencing maps methylation; ATAC-seq shows open chromatin. Epigenetic clocks estimate biological age from methylation.
Epigenome-wide association studies relate methylation to exposures and disease. Cell-type heterogeneity must be considered. Editing tools (dCas9 fused to modifiers) rewrite marks at chosen loci.
Key idea: the epigenome varies between cell types despite identical DNA.
Frequently asked questions
What is Epigenomics?
Genome-wide mapping of DNA methylation and histone marks that regulate gene activity.
Which area of biology covers Epigenomics, and how advanced is it?
Epigenomics is one of the 56 topics in Biotechnology & Genomics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Liquid Biopsy, Single-Cell Sequencing, RNA-Seq.
Can you give an example of Epigenomics?
Methylation patterns can classify tumour types.
What should I learn before Epigenomics?
Work through the Beginner topics in Biotechnology & Genomics first, such as Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding, then return to Epigenomics. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Epigenomics?
The closest topics to Epigenomics are Liquid Biopsy, Single-Cell Sequencing, RNA-Seq, Comparative Genomics. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Epigenomics?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Epigenomics. To practise the whole of Biotechnology & Genomics, use the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz.
How is Epigenomics different from Liquid Biopsy?
Epigenomics: Genome-wide mapping of DNA methylation and histone marks that regulate gene activity. Liquid Biopsy: Detecting tumour DNA in blood to diagnose or monitor cancer non-invasively. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Epigenomics 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 Liquid Biopsy and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.