The Epigenetics Revolution

March 1, 2012
British virologist Carey tackles epigenetics with a passion to explain a rapidly developing and complex field. Early on the author reminds us that a surprising finding from human-genome research is that only two percent of the DNA in our cells codes for proteins used in the body. Though it was once fashionable to call the rest "junk" DNA, that's not the case today. Some of this DNA is transcribed as "non-coding RNA" with various functions, and some codes for proteins that determine which genes are expressed and which genes are silent in a given cell type--a liver or a skin cell, for example--ensuring that when these cells divide, the daughter cells will be the same type. Epigenetics is the study of those DNA controls, the key players for which are proteins that attach methyl groups to selected parts of DNA and proteins that add acetyl groups to histones (proteins associated with DNA on chromosomes). None of these controls is evident when sperm meets egg and undergoes initial cell divisions, which explains why "embryonic stem cells" are prized for their ability to develop into any cell type. As Carey surveys the field, she dwells on early development as a critical period when environmental influences can affect epigenetic controls with long-term effects. Thus women pregnant in the first trimester in the infamous Dutch famine in World War II gave birth to offspring at increased risk for obesity as adults. Similarly, Carey explores epigenetic changes dues to childhood abuse as contributing to stress-related illnesses in maturity. Epigenetic effects may also play a role in schizophrenia and chronic diseases, including cancer, and have already inspired new drugs to inhibit epigenetic controls. There is also fascinating research to explain, for example, why feeding honey-bee larvae royal jelly will turn them into queens and not sterile workers. Carey makes clear that debate and controversy attend this rapidly growing field, and she takes pains to explore alternate (non-epigenetic) explanations for various findings. An exhilarating exploration of an exciting new field, and a good gift for a bright biology student looking for a career choice.

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Starred review from March 15, 2012

Why doesn't DNA completely determine our destiny? The answer may lie in the new biological frontier of epigenetics--the "changes to our genetic material that change the way genes are switched on or off, but which don't alter the genes themselves." Recent research has revealed how these changes occur--or, as former genetics professor and biotech/pharmaceutical industry veteran Carey explains: "We are finally starting to unravel the missing link between nature and nurture; how our environment talks to us and alters us, sometimes forever." She takes readers inside the genome, showing how epigenetic phenomena occur at the molecular level and what that means for the entire organism, be it worm, mouse, or human. Early chapters introduce key concepts in epigenetics, while subsequent chapters highlight major findings in epigenetic research and the role of epigenetic phenomena in cancer, mental illness, and aging. VERDICT Throughout, Carey's clear prose, well-chosen analogies, and simple, clear diagrams help the scientifically literate lay reader understand complicated concepts and processes. This book provides an excellent introduction to a fascinating new field that may revolutionize our understanding of human health and disease. Highly recommended.--Janet A. Crum, City of Hope, Duarte, CA

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