TRAC 39: Epigenetics

Sequencing of the human genome was not the endpoint of our goal in understanding human genetics.  The chemical modifications to DNA and the chemical interactions involving the manufacture of proteins represents a second level of human genetics termed, epigenetics or epigenomics.  Epigenetics refers to the study of heritable changes in gene expression that occur without a change in DNA sequence. Research has shown that epigenetic mechanisms provide an additional layer of transcriptional control that regulates how genes are expressed.  Epigenetic abnormalities are associated with genetic disorders, cancer, autoimmune diseases, aging and pediatric syndromes, among others.
 
This course will address the basic principles of epigenetics, the role of epigenetic mechanisms in normal development and human disease, and the development of epigenetically-effective drugs.


Topics:  Basic Principles of Epigenetics; DNA Methylation and Histone Modification:  Regulation of Organization and Gene Expression; Genomic Imprinting and Syndromes; Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Embryonic Manipulation as it Relates to Normal Development; Cancer Epigenetics; Epigenetics and Aging; Epigenetics and the Activation of the Immune Response; Role of Epigenetics in Psychiatric, Autistic and Neurodegenerative Disorders; Epigenetic Alterations in Pediatric Syndromes; Therapeutics:  Design and Efficacy of Drugs Directed Against Epigenetic Modalities of DNA Methylation and Histone Acetylation.

9:00 - 5:00 p.m.