Biology 1201A Lecture Notes - Lecture 16: Volvox, Somatic Cell, Southern Blot
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*extra notes* epigenetics= non genetic cellular memory that reflects developmental and environmental conditions. Epigenetics modifications alter the expression of dna, but not it"s sequence. Are self-perpetuating and reversible because they cause genes to be switched on and off. Changes may include modifications to histones, proteins around which dna wraps and can be involved in down regulating or transcription of genes. ex acetylation loosens packing and encourages transcription and translation. Without epigenetic modifications, all genes in every cell would be functional, inhibiting or preventing cell differentiation. Epigenetic changes account for diff patterns of activation of the x chromosome in mammals. Identify the function of caspases: essential role in aptosis or programmed cell death in development and most other stages of adult life, and have been termed executioner proteins for their roles in the cell. Failure of apoptosis is one of the main contributions to tumor devlpmt and autoimmune disease.