Epigenetic Mechanisms Driving Human Evolutionary Changes

Authors: UDI OA and Okoro GO*

DOI: 10.23880/jhua-16000207

Volume 9, Issue 1

Abstract

crucial aspect of our comprehension of human evolution is epigenetics, the study of heritable modifications in gene function that do not include modifications in the DNA sequence. This intriguing field of study emphasises on how reversible and environmental-sensitive mechanisms, such as histone, DNA methylation, and non-coding RNA activity, control gene expression and support phenotypic variation. These techniques allow animals to adapt to changing environments without experiencing permanent genetic changes, providing a flexible basis for evolutionary processes. Understanding human evolution now heavily relies on epigenetics. Since animals can adapt to changing environments without enduring permanent genetic changes, evolutionary processes have a flexible basis. Epigenetic modifications have closely linked characteristics such as immune system function and brain development throughout human evolution. Epigenetic patterns have been impacted by environmental factors like diet, illness, and climate, which has allowed organisms to flourish and procreate in a variety of ecological niches. With an emphasis on their function in human evolution, this study explores the molecular mechanisms underlying epigenetic control and how epigenetics allows humans to display amazing phenotypic plasticity. The ramifications of epigenetic studies in anthropology are also examined, with a focus on how modern humans differ from their hominid ancestors and how epigenetics influences cultural and social practices. This review further highlights the revolutionary potential of epigenetics in deciphering the intricacies of human evolution by fusing knowledge from genetics, anthropology, and environmental studies.

Keywords: Epigenetics; Evolution; Anthropology; DNA

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