Epigenetic Mechanisms in Gene Regulation
Skills you will gain:
The Epigenetic Mechanisms in Gene Regulation program provides a detailed examination of how epigenetic changes can control gene activity and the implications this has for human health and development. Throughout this one-month course, students will delve into the core concepts of DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA-associated silencing, which collectively contribute to the dynamic regulation of gene expression.
Aim: This program seeks to explore the complex world of epigenetics, emphasizing how environmental factors can influence gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Participants will learn to dissect the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation, their implications in health and disease, and the potential for epigenetic therapies.
Program Objectives:
- Understand the fundamentals of epigenetic modifications and their roles in gene regulation.
- Learn about the techniques used to study epigenetic changes, such as bisulfite sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation.
- Examine the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on epigenetic patterns.
- Discuss the implications of epigenetics in disease manifestation and treatment.
- Explore the ethical and social issues related to epigenetic knowledge, especially in prenatal and predictive testing.
What you will learn?
Week 1: Core Concepts of Epigenetics
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Principles of gene regulation beyond DNA sequence
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DNA methylation: roles in silencing and development
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Histone modifications and chromatin remodeling basics
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RNA-mediated gene regulation (lncRNAs, miRNAs)
Week 2: Epigenetics in Health and Disease
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Developmental epigenetics and cell fate decisions
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Epigenetic reprogramming and plasticity
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Disease states: cancer epigenomics, autoimmune triggers
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Environmental and nutritional epigenetics
Week 3: Techniques in Epigenetic Profiling
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Bisulfite sequencing, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq workflows
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Single-cell epigenomics and integrative omics
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Deep tech in data mining: epigenomic databases & pipelines
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Lab-to-clinic transitions: biomarker discovery
Week 4: Therapeutic Applications and Future Frontiers
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Epigenetic drugs: HDAC and DNMT inhibitors
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CRISPR/dCas9 tools for targeted epigenome editing
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Epigenetics in precision medicine and regenerative biology
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Ethical, regulatory, and translational considerations
Intended For :
- Undergraduate degree in Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related fields.
- Professionals in biomedical, clinical research, or pharmaceutical industries.
- Individuals with a keen interest in genetic research and molecular biology.
Career Supporting Skills