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Epigenetics is the field of study concerned with alterations in gene expression which occur without changes to an organism’s DNA sequence. Epigenetic modifications include histone modifications, DNA methylation, and interactions with non-coding RNAs. In this chapter, you will learn how epigenetic modifications control the development, proliferation, and self-renewal of stem cells, and how these modifications also play important roles in cell fate decisions such as differentiation, de-differentiation, and transdifferentiation. The chapter covers epigenetic control of reprogramming of stem cells, in the generation of induced pluripotent cells, and in understanding the origins of Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs). The chapter covers the environmental factors that influence stem cell biology and aging and interact strongly with epigenetic control mechanisms. The chapter concludes with understanding these control mechanisms, and the impact of epigenetics on stem cell development, senescence, and regenerative capacity and their role in developing epigenetic-based therapeutics. |
