Epigenetics
An epigenome is created from chemical tags that are left behind when the physical structure of a genome is changed. In other words, when genes are turned on or off, it is recorded creating "a memory log of all the influences on that particular cell" (Zimbardo et al., 2017). Therefore, social experiences "can induce both transient and lasting changes in the brain gene expression" (Robinson et al., 2008).
Epigenetics can be passed down to children and even grandchildren. Environmental conditions such as starvation, abuse or toxins can leave a lasting imprint on the genome that passes down through the generations.
Page References:
Evolution News. (2012). Bees Can Switch Roles Epigenetically. Evolution News. https://evolutionnews.org/2012/09/bees_can_switch_1/
Faculty of Medicine-University of Oslo. (2016). Epigenetics: Nature vs nurture. YouTube. https://youtu.be/k50yMwEOWGU
Harvard University. (2019). What is Epigenetics? The Answer to the Nature vs. Nurture Debate. Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/what-is-epigenetics-and-how-does-it-relate-to-child-development/
Robinson, G. E., Fernald, R. D., & Clayton, D. F. (2008). Genes and Social Behavior. Science, 322(5903), 896–900. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1159277
Zimbardo, P., Johnson, R., & McCann, V. (2017). Psychology: Core concepts (8th Ed.) Prentice Hall.
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