Environmental factors influence genetic expression from "summary" of Human Biology by Cecie Starr,Beverly McMillan
Genes provide the instructions for making proteins, which carry out the functions of cells. However, the expression of genes can be influenced by environmental factors. One of the most well-known examples of this is phenylketonuria, a genetic disorder that causes mental retardation. This disorder occurs when a person inherits two recessive alleles that prevent the body from breaking down the amino acid phenylalanine. Without treatment, phenylketonuria can lead to severe intellectual disabilities. However, if a person with this disorder follows a strict diet that limits phenylalanine intake, the effects of the disorder can be minimized. This is an example of how environmental factors can influence genetic expression. Another example of how the environment can influence genetic expression is seen in the field of epigenetics. Epigenetic changes are modifications to DNA that do not change the underlying genetic code but can still influence gene expression. These changes can be caused by environmental factors such as diet, stress, or exposure to toxins. For example, studies have shown that the children of people who survived famines have different patterns of gene expression compared to those who did not experience famine. These changes can be passed down to future generations, demonstrating how environmental factors can have long-lasting effects on genetic expression.- Environmental factors play a significant role in influencing genetic expression. From disorders like phenylketonuria to epigenetic changes caused by external factors, the environment can have a profound impact on how genes are expressed. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing treatments for genetic disorders and improving overall health.
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