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Epigenetics
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:06
Abstract
Epigenetics studies the inheritance of traits that cannot be attributed to changes in the DNA sequence. The lecture will present an overview of different epigenetic phenomena and provide detailed insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms. The role of epigenetic processes in the development of cancer and other disorders will be discussed.
Objective
The aim of the course is to gain an understanding of epigenetic mechanisms and their impact on the development of organisms, regenerative processes or manifestation of disease.
Content
Topics - historical overview, concepts and comparison Genetics vs. Epigenetics - Biology of chromatin: structure and function, organization in the nucleus and the role of histone modifications in processes like transcription and replication - DNA methylation as an epigenetic modification - Inheritance of epigenetic modifications during cell division: cellular memory - Stability and reversibility of epigenetic modifications: cellular plasticity and stem cells - Genomic imprinting in plants and mammals - X chromosome inactivation and dosis compensation - position effects, paramutations and transvection - RNA-induced gene silencing - The role of epigenetic processes in cancer development or cell aging
Resources
Learning Materials (Links)
- Moodle course
- Moodle-Kurs / Moodle course
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- Keine Hilfsmittel zugelassen.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Epigenetics |
|
2 h weekly |