Science and Medicine
Fall 2013
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Human Genetics and Epigenetics (Video Conference)
Day: 6 Thursdays Time: 1:15-2:45 p.m. Dates: 9/26-10/31 Location: UMass Boston, Healey Library, Lower Level, Presentation Room 3; Cordage Park, Plymouth & Hingham Public Library via video conference Facilitator: Dr.Tara Devi S. Ashok Description: In this series of talks, some basic concepts in genetics will be enumerated and how they can be applied to human traits and their expression. A deeper discussion will be on the nature and nurture concept. Epigenetics is the new field which deals with the understanding of how environmental factors influence the expression of a gene that is already inherited. This mechanism will be explained in simple terms with the help of a few examples. It will illustrate how even monozygotic twins may not show the same expression for the traits that may be identical at the DNEA sequence level. Therefore, in modern times, a hope is generated for delaying the onset of some diseases by better management of the environmental factors. The lectures will be in keeping with simple terminology and a wide array of examples which will make it very understandable for one and all.
