1. relating to or denoting heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence
Usage: scientific/technical term; commonly used in biology and genetics
2. relating to factors or processes that influence genetic expression without changing the genetic code itself
Usage: broader usage in developmental biology

Examples

• Epigenetic modifications can be influenced by diet, stress, and environmental exposure.
• Scientists study epigenetic changes to understand how identical twins can develop different traits.
• The research revealed that epigenetic factors play a crucial role in cancer development.
• Epigenetic inheritance allows organisms to pass on acquired characteristics to their offspring.
• Environmental toxins can trigger epigenetic alterations in developing embryos.
• Understanding epigenetic mechanisms has opened new possibilities for personalized medicine.