Epigenetics: Blessing or Curse

“Epigenetics is the study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself. Genes occur in pairs and code for specific traits or combinations of traits in the body. Most genes can have significant variation in the degree to which they express themselves. This is very important to remember as we discuss the impact of epigenetics on animal performance. What factors can alter degree of gene expression? Primarily environmental factors such as diet or nutrition, climate, disease, toxins, deficiencies, and other environmental influences.”