Epigenetics – An Avant Garde Beacon In Periodontics

Epigenetics is the study of the mitotically and meiotically heritable changes in the gene function that cannot be explained by changes in the DNA sequence. Epigenetics means "above" or "on top of" genetics. It means the external change or tempering of the DNA that turn genes "on" or "off." These modifications are brought on by several external or environmental factors like diet, stress, smoking, infections etc. They do not change the DNA sequence, but instead, they affect how cells "read" genes. As the quote by Dr Oz goes "Your genetics load the gun. Your lifestyle pulls the trigger." Studies have demonstrated that epigenetic alterations contribute to a number of diseases like cancer, metabolic and autoimmune disorders. An understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms helps to develop novel therapeutic aids which target the specific epigenetic sites. This article aims to review the effects of Epigenetics in Periodontology.