epigenetically

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "epigenetically" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an adverb that is used to describe how developments occur as a result of changes in gene expression, rather than from changes in the genetic code itself. For example, "The condition was epigenetically passed down to the next generation from an illness the mother had acquired."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that such twins are epigenetically indistinguishable when young, but that as they grow older they develop remarkable differences in their patterns of epigenetic modification.Indeed, epigenetics is crucial for processes such as development, ageing, cancer formation, mental health and infertility.

The Economist

The results suggest that although monozygotic twins do differ epigenetically, they differ less than dizygotic twins.This is all very confusing.

The Economist

Instead, identical twins are epigenetically closer to each other than the fraternal sort.

The Economist

All this suggests it is worth investigating the idea that epigenetically modified sperm may be a previously unrecognised source of disease.The other point worth noting is that, although some epigenetic modification takes place when sperm cells form (shortly before they are ejaculated), much of it happens early in embryonic development, when the progenitors of those cells come into being.

The Economist

One class involves genes that are themselves regulated epigenetically, such as the imprinted (parent-specific) genes associated with Angelman syndrome or Prader-Willi syndrome.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another theory holds that aging gonad cells are more error-prone because the parts of the DNA that should have spotted and repaired any mistakes have been epigenetically tamped down.

The New York Times

"For something to be transmitted epigenetically from one generation to the next, it would have to resist this reprogramming," says Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith, a geneticist at the University of Cambridge who ran the pregnant mouse study with her colleagues in Boston.

The Guardian

What if some overzealous law-maker reads the headlines about how a female rat's behaviour or diet can epigenetically modify her foetus, and starts drafting a bill dictating what pregnant women can and can't do or eat?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Another research group claims to have found evidence that the traumatic experience of being caught up in the 9/11 attacks was epigenetically passed on to children by women who were pregnant at the time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Solar systems can "evolve" and could develop epigenetically, at least in theory.

SEP

Lorenz's theory would imply that traits produced in this way are also innate, since they reflect inherited information, albeit epigenetically rather than genetically inherited.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "epigenetically", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific biological process or outcome that is being influenced by epigenetic mechanisms. Providing concrete examples or further details can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid attributing all heritable traits solely to "epigenetically" factors. While epigenetics plays a significant role, it is crucial to acknowledge the interplay between genetic and environmental influences in shaping phenotypes.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "epigenetically" modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to describe actions or states that occur as a result of epigenetic mechanisms. Ludwig confirms its use in contexts relating to heritability and gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adverb "epigenetically" is correctly used to describe processes influenced by epigenetics, which involves changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Ludwig AI confirms that it is primarily utilized in scientific and news contexts. Understanding its function and purpose helps avoid misinterpreting the scope of epigenetic influence. Remember, while epigenetic factors are significant, they don't operate in isolation; interactions between genetics and environment also shape traits. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, the term is most effectively employed when the context provides specific details about the biological processes involved, which enhances clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through epigenetic mechanisms

This alternative highlights the process or pathway by which epigenetic changes occur.

in an epigenetically determined manner

This phrase emphasizes the role of epigenetic factors in dictating a specific outcome or characteristic.

via epigenetic inheritance

This focuses on the transmission of epigenetic information across generations.

by means of epigenetic modification

This alternative stresses the alterations made to the DNA that lead to changes in gene expression.

as a result of epigenetic changes

This specifies that observed effects stem from modifications to the epigenome.

due to epigenetic factors

This alternative indicates that certain outcomes are attributable to epigenetic influences.

influenced by epigenetics

This option underscores the impact of epigenetic processes on a specific trait or phenomenon.

subject to epigenetic regulation

This highlights that a process or gene is controlled by epigenetic mechanisms.

experiencing epigenetic effects

This alternative portrays a state or process being affected by epigenetic phenomena.

epigenetic regulation

This shortens the expression to the core concept.

FAQs

How can I use "epigenetically" in a sentence?

You can use "epigenetically" to describe how certain traits or conditions are passed down through generations via changes in gene expression. For instance, "The offspring were "epigenetically modified" due to the mother's diet during pregnancy."

What's the difference between genetic and "epigenetically" inheritance?

Genetic inheritance involves changes to the DNA sequence itself, while "epigenetically inheritance" refers to changes in gene expression that do not alter the DNA sequence. These epigenetic changes can still be passed down to future generations.

What are some common examples of traits influenced "epigenetically"?

Examples of traits influenced "epigenetically" include susceptibility to certain diseases, behavioral patterns, and developmental processes. Environmental factors such as diet and stress can also "epigenetically affect" these traits.

Is it accurate to say all inherited traits are influenced "epigenetically"?

No, it is not accurate. While epigenetic mechanisms contribute to many inherited traits, genetic inheritance (changes in the DNA sequence) also plays a crucial role. The interplay between genetic and "environmental factors", including epigenetic modifications, shapes the characteristics of an organism.