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Dr. Marnie Blewitt
While the human genome sequence has transformed our understanding of human biology, it isn’t just the sequence of your DNA that matters, but also how you use it! How are some genes activated and others are silenced? How is this controlled? The answer is epigenetics.
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While the human genome sequence has transformed our understanding of human biology, it isn’t just the sequence of your DNA that matters, but also how you use it! How are some genes activated and others are silenced? How is this controlled? The answer is epigenetics.
Read more
While the human genome sequence has transformed our understanding of human biology, it isn’t just the sequence of your DNA that matters, but also how you use it! How are some genes activated and others are silenced? How is this controlled? The answer is epigenetics.
Epigenetics has been a hot topic for research over the past decade as it has become clear that aberrant epigenetic control contributes to disease (particularly to cancer). Epigenetic alterations are heritable through cell division, and in some instances are able to behave similarly to mutations in terms of their stability. Importantly, unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications are reversible and therefore have the potential to be manipulated therapeutically. It has also become clear in recent years that epigenetic modifications are sensitive to the environment (for example diet), which has sparked a large amount of public debate and research.
This course will give an introduction to the fundamentals of epigenetic control. We will examine epigenetic phenomena that are manifestations of epigenetic control in several organisms, with a focus on mammals. We will examine the interplay between epigenetic control and the environment and finally the role of aberrant epigenetic control in disease.
All necessary information will be covered in the lectures, and recommended and required readings will be provided. There are no additional required texts for this course. For those interested, additional information can be obtained in the following textbook.
Epigenetics. Allis, Jenuwein, Reinberg and Caparros. Cold Spring Harbour Laboratory Press. ISBN-13: 978-0879697242 | Edition: 1
The course will re-open in 2022.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/m30qtk/epigenetic
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1 - Introduction to Epigenetic Control
An introduction to and definition of epigenetic control of gene expression, and its importance in normal development. We will learn what chromatin is, and how its composition and packaging can alter gene expression. We’ll also discuss the best-characterised epigenetic modification, DNA methylation, and how it is not only implicated in regulating gene expression, but also in maintaining genome stability.
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Syllabus
Week 1 - Introduction to Epigenetic Control
An introduction to and definition of epigenetic control of gene expression, and its importance in normal development. We will learn what chromatin is, and how its composition and packaging can alter gene expression. We’ll also discuss the best-characterised epigenetic modification, DNA methylation, and how it is not only implicated in regulating gene expression, but also in maintaining genome stability.
Read more
Week 2 - Epigenetic Modifications and Organisation of the Nucleus
We’ll discuss the molecular mechanisms for regulating gene expression in some detail, from how the DNA is packaged at a local level, right up to how the chromatin is positioned within the nucleus. We’ll learn about the chromatin modifications implicated in gene silencing and activation, the role of non-coding RNA, and higher order chromatin structures. This week will provide you with a good understanding of the basic mechanisms that will help you understand the processes we discuss throughout the rest of the course.
Week 3 - Dosage Compensation
X chromosome inactivation is a really well-characterised epigenetic process that is now used as a model system to study epigenetic processes that are relevant more broadly. This is because it uses many epigenetic mechanisms, at many levels, to achieve really stable silencing of a whole chromosome. We’ll learn about this process and how it occurs in a mouse in great detail, which will greatly add to the mechanistic understanding gained in week two. We will then briefly discuss alternate mechanisms for dosage compensation that occur in other organisms.
Week 4 - Genomic Imprinting and Epigenetic Reprogramming
We’ll learn about the two important periods during development for the erasure and resetting of the epigenome. There are two well-characterised features that are treated differently during epigenetic reprogramming; imprinted genes and repeats. We’ll learn about mechanisms for genomic imprinting, and study three examples in more depth.
Week 5 - The Influence of the Environment on Epigenetic Control
We start to look at some of the big areas of interest in human epigenetics, including environmental influence on the epigenome, reprogramming of somatic cells back to stem cells, cloning, and potential transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. We’ll discuss what is known to happen to the epigenome during these process, and look at some seminal case studies.
Week 6 - Mechanisms of Environmental Influence on Epigenetic Control and Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance Through the Gametes
A look at the mechanisms underlying some of the observations we discussed in week 5, through the study of model organisms. We’ll learn about metastable epialleles, which have allowed the study of transgenerational epigenetics in mice, and provided some evidence for transgenerational epigenetics in mammals.
Week 7 - Cancer Epigenetics
This week we’ll bring together much of what we’ve learned in previous weeks of the course, to understand how the epigenome is affected, and can also affect, cancer development and progression. We’ll then go on to discuss the potential therapeutic benefits that can come from using epigenetic biomarkers, and targeting epigenetic modifiers in cancer.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops an understanding of the fundamentals of epigenetic control and delves into epigenetic phenomena in mammals
Covers the interplay between epigenetic control and the environment
Examines the role of aberrant epigenetic control in disease, providing valuable insights into the development and progression of certain diseases
May require additional textbooks or resources outside of the provided materials
Intended for individuals with a strong background in biology, particularly in molecular biology and genetics
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Reviews summary
Epigenetics: a highly rated course
Learners largely positively rate this course on epigenetics, a relatively new field of study that focuses on how gene expression is impacted by mechanisms that are external to the DNA sequence itself. Learners say the course provides a thorough and well-structured overview of epigenetic modifications, covering a range of topics, including how environmental factors can influence gene expression and how epigenetics impacts our health, especially in relation to cancer.
I really enjoyed this course and I recomend to everyone.
"The course structure is very well designed."
"I really enjoyed this course (the assignments too, they made you think!)."
"This course was new to me. All the concepts were explained in a very simplified manner."
It is a wonderful course to learn about epigenetics.
"I loved it! It's quite challenging, but it's worth it!"
"It was a very good course. It increases my knowledge regarding epigenetics and especially the role of epigenetics in cancer."
"It was a great course. I have waited a long time to do this course. But it did not disappoint."
This course was so good.
"This was such an informative and engaging course!"
"In this course you will learn about epigenetic modifications, how they are affected by the environment, how they are passed down generation, and then apply all of your knowledge to understand the role of epigenetics in cancer."
"The course was a game-changer in my life! Very well structured!"
The professor was extremely knowledgable and I learned so much.
"The content is good, but the teacher and its way of teaching are in another level! Totally recommended!"
"I love it. The explanation of the topics is clear and I learned details more precise about the process."
"Excellent course. Interesting topic amazingly explained by Dr. Blewitt! I would definitely recommend it!"
Excellent course!
"This course is perfect!"
"Excellent course! The topic isn't an easy one, but Dr Marnie Blewitt was brilliant and her explanation is clear and very good."
"Amazingly structured and delivered course by the entire team."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression with these
activities:
Review Molecular Biology Concepts
Show steps
Enhance your foundational understanding of molecular biology concepts, as they provide a critical framework for comprehending epigenetic mechanisms and their impact on gene regulation.
Browse courses on
Molecular Biology
Show steps
-
Review textbooks, class notes, and online resources on molecular biology.
-
Focus on core concepts such as DNA structure, gene expression, and cellular processes.
-
Solve practice problems and complete exercises to test your understanding.
Review Introduction to Molecular Biology
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of essential principles in molecular biology, genetic regulation, and experimental techniques to prepare for this course's advanced topics.
Browse courses on
Molecular Biology
Show steps
-
Go through your textbooks and notes from previous molecular biology or introductory biology courses.
-
Review seminal papers and key concepts in the field.
-
Participate in online forums or discussion groups to refresh your knowledge and connect with others in the field.
Create a Personalized Study Guide
Show steps
Improve your recall and retention of course material by creating a comprehensive study guide that consolidates key concepts, definitions, and examples.
Browse courses on
Study Guide
Show steps
-
Gather your lecture notes, textbooks, and other course materials.
-
Identify the most important concepts and ideas from each module.
-
Organize and structure the information in a logical and easy-to-understand format.
-
Include definitions, examples, diagrams, and practice questions to reinforce your understanding.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Master PCR and Sequencing Techniques
Show steps
Strengthen your practical skills in PCR and sequencing to enhance your ability to design and conduct experiments in this course.
Browse courses on
PCR
Show steps
-
Enroll in online tutorials or workshops on PCR and sequencing.
-
Practice designing primers and optimizing PCR conditions.
-
Learn about different sequencing technologies and their applications.
-
Analyze sequencing data and interpret results.
Attend Epigenetics Study Group
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of epigenetic concepts and engage with course material by participating in regular study group discussions with peers.
Show steps
-
Form or join a study group with classmates.
-
Establish a regular meeting schedule and set discussion topics.
-
Prepare for each session by reviewing lecture notes and assigned readings.
-
Actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights.
Develop Epigenetic Data Visualization
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of epigenetic data analysis and presentation by creating interactive visualizations that illustrate key concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Data Visualization
Show steps
-
Identify a specific epigenetic dataset or research question.
-
Choose appropriate data visualization tools and techniques.
-
Design and create interactive visualizations that effectively communicate your findings.
-
Share your visualizations with peers or a wider audience for feedback and discussion.
Contribute to Epigenetics Software Projects
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of epigenetic analysis tools and contribute to the scientific community by participating in open-source software projects related to epigenetics.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
-
Identify open-source projects that align with your interests in epigenetics.
-
Review the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase.
-
Make contributions to the project, such as fixing bugs, adding features, or improving documentation.
-
Collaborate with other developers and provide feedback on their contributions.
Review Molecular Biology Concepts
Show steps
Enhance your foundational understanding of molecular biology concepts, as they provide a critical framework for comprehending epigenetic mechanisms and their impact on gene regulation.
Browse courses on
Molecular Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review textbooks, class notes, and online resources on molecular biology.
- Focus on core concepts such as DNA structure, gene expression, and cellular processes.
- Solve practice problems and complete exercises to test your understanding.
Review Introduction to Molecular Biology
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of essential principles in molecular biology, genetic regulation, and experimental techniques to prepare for this course's advanced topics.
Browse courses on
Molecular Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go through your textbooks and notes from previous molecular biology or introductory biology courses.
- Review seminal papers and key concepts in the field.
- Participate in online forums or discussion groups to refresh your knowledge and connect with others in the field.
Create a Personalized Study Guide
Show steps
Improve your recall and retention of course material by creating a comprehensive study guide that consolidates key concepts, definitions, and examples.
Browse courses on
Study Guide
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your lecture notes, textbooks, and other course materials.
- Identify the most important concepts and ideas from each module.
- Organize and structure the information in a logical and easy-to-understand format.
- Include definitions, examples, diagrams, and practice questions to reinforce your understanding.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Master PCR and Sequencing Techniques
Show steps
Strengthen your practical skills in PCR and sequencing to enhance your ability to design and conduct experiments in this course.
Browse courses on
PCR
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Enroll in online tutorials or workshops on PCR and sequencing.
- Practice designing primers and optimizing PCR conditions.
- Learn about different sequencing technologies and their applications.
- Analyze sequencing data and interpret results.
Attend Epigenetics Study Group
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of epigenetic concepts and engage with course material by participating in regular study group discussions with peers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form or join a study group with classmates.
- Establish a regular meeting schedule and set discussion topics.
- Prepare for each session by reviewing lecture notes and assigned readings.
- Actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights.
Develop Epigenetic Data Visualization
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of epigenetic data analysis and presentation by creating interactive visualizations that illustrate key concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Data Visualization
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific epigenetic dataset or research question.
- Choose appropriate data visualization tools and techniques.
- Design and create interactive visualizations that effectively communicate your findings.
- Share your visualizations with peers or a wider audience for feedback and discussion.
Contribute to Epigenetics Software Projects
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of epigenetic analysis tools and contribute to the scientific community by participating in open-source software projects related to epigenetics.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source projects that align with your interests in epigenetics.
- Review the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase.
- Make contributions to the project, such as fixing bugs, adding features, or improving documentation.
- Collaborate with other developers and provide feedback on their contributions.
Career center
Learners who complete Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Epigenetics Researcher
Epigenetics Researcher
An Epigenetics Researcher studies how the environment and lifestyle can affect our genes. This role is highly relevant to the course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' as it covers the influence of the environment on epigenetic control. By taking this course, you will gain a strong understanding of the mechanisms behind how our environment can shape our genes. This knowledge can be invaluable in your role as an Epigenetics Researcher, as it can help you to better understand the epigenetic changes that occur in response to environmental factors.
Bioinformatician
Bioinformatician
A Bioinformatics Scientist uses computational tools to analyze biological data. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Bioinformatics Scientist, as it covers the computational analysis of epigenetic data. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of how to analyze epigenetic data, which can be useful in your role as a Bioinformatics Scientist.
Computational Biologist
Computational Biologist
A Computational Biologist uses computational tools to study biological systems. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Computational Biologist, as it covers the computational analysis of epigenetic data. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of how to analyze epigenetic data, which can be useful in your role as a Computational Biologist.
Biostatistician
Biostatistician
A Biostatistician uses statistical methods to analyze biological data. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Biostatistician, as it covers the statistical analysis of epigenetic data. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of how to analyze epigenetic data, which can be useful in your role as a Biostatistician.
Genetic Counselor
Genetic Counselor
A Genetic Counselor provides information and support to individuals and families affected by genetic conditions. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' may be useful for a Genetic Counselor, as it covers the genetic basis of epigenetic modifications. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the role of epigenetics in genetic conditions, which can be useful in your role as a Genetic Counselor.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
A Science Teacher teaches science to students at the secondary or post-secondary level. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Science Teacher, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Science Teacher.
Science Writer
Science Writer
A Science Writer communicates scientific information to a non-scientific audience. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Science Writer, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Science Writer.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorney
A Patent Attorney helps clients to obtain and protect patents for their inventions. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Patent Attorney, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Patent Attorney.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
A Research Scientist conducts scientific research in a variety of fields. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Research Scientist, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Research Scientist.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultant
A Healthcare Consultant provides advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a variety of topics. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Healthcare Consultant, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Healthcare Consultant.
Medical Writer
Medical Writer
A Medical Writer creates written content about medical topics for a variety of audiences. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Medical Writer, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Medical Writer.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technician
A Laboratory Technician performs laboratory tests and procedures. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Laboratory Technician, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Laboratory Technician.
Product Manager
Product Manager
A Product Manager manages the development and marketing of products. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' can be useful for a Product Manager, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Product Manager.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
A Management Consultant provides advice and guidance to businesses on a variety of topics. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' may be useful for a Management Consultant, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Management Consultant.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst analyzes business processes and makes recommendations for improvement. The course 'Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression' may be useful for a Business Analyst, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics. By taking this course, you may gain a better understanding of the latest research in epigenetics, which can be useful in your role as a Business Analyst.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/m30qtk/epigenetic
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of epigenetics, including the latest research on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. It valuable resource for students and researchers alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and applications of epigenetics, focusing on the molecular mechanisms and clinical implications of epigenetic modifications.
Save
Provides a practical guide to the methods used in epigenetics research. It valuable resource for researchers who are new to the field or who want to learn more about specific techniques.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of epigenetics in development. It is written by leading experts in the field and is suitable for students and researchers alike.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of epigenetics in cancer. It is written by leading experts in the field and is suitable for students and researchers alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical implications of epigenetics, with a focus on cancer and other human diseases.
Explores the role of epigenetics in disease, with a focus on cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic diseases. It valuable resource for researchers and clinicians who are interested in the potential of epigenetics for diagnosis and treatment.
Save
Explores the role of environmental factors in epigenetic regulation, with a focus on the impact of environmental toxins on human health.
This comprehensive textbook covers a wide range of topics in molecular biology, including epigenetics. It serves as a valuable resource for students and researchers seeking a thorough understanding of the field.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/m30qtk/epigenetic
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7 weeks of study, 6-8 hours/week
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Instructor
Dr. Marnie Blewitt
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Good to know
Develops an understanding of the fundamentals of epigenetic control and delves into epigenetic phenomena in mammals
Covers the interplay between epigenetic control and the environment
Examines the role of aberrant epigenetic control in disease, providing valuable insights into the development and progression of certain diseases
May require additional textbooks or resources outside of the provided materials
Intended for individuals with a strong background in biology, particularly in molecular biology and genetics
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