Parent-of-origin-specific gene expression caused by epigenetic marks, as seen in IGF2 and H19.
For imprinted genes only one parental copy is expressed because of methylation set in the germline. Examples are IGF2 (paternal expression) and H19 (maternal). Disorders include Prader-Willi (paternal deletion of 15q11-q13) and Angelman syndrome (maternal deletion of the same region).
Imprinting violates the simple rule that both alleles contribute equally.
Parent-of-origin-specific gene expression caused by epigenetic marks, as seen in IGF2 and H19.
Genomic Imprinting is one of the 54 topics in Genetics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include X-Chromosome Inactivation, Epigenetics, Inherited Disorders.
In mammals, uniparental embryos fail, showing that both parents' genomes are required.
Work through the Beginner topics in Genetics first, such as Heredity, Gene, Allele, then return to Genomic Imprinting. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
The closest topics to Genomic Imprinting are X-Chromosome Inactivation, Epigenetics, Inherited Disorders, Heredity. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Genomic Imprinting. To practise the whole of Genetics, use the Genetics quiz.
Genomic Imprinting: Parent-of-origin-specific gene expression caused by epigenetic marks, as seen in IGF2 and H19. X-Chromosome Inactivation: One X chromosome in each female cell is silenced as a Barr body to equalise gene dosage. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
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 X-Chromosome Inactivation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Genetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
One X chromosome in each female cell is silenced as a Barr body to equalise gene dosage.
🧬 GeneticsHeritable changes in gene activity, through DNA methylation and histone modification, without altering the DNA sequence.
🧬 GeneticsConditions caused by faulty genes passed through families, such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease.
🧬 GeneticsThe passing of traits from parents to offspring through genetic material.
🧬 Genetics