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> they don't change human genes, at most they change gene expression. This is an extremely pedantic distinction, especially since the article as a whole is pre
by epgui 2y ago
> they don't change human genes, at most they change gene expression.
This is an extremely pedantic distinction, especially since the article as a whole is pretty clear.
In nearly all cases, what matters is whether we're talking about information that is encoded and passed down. That's the case here, even if the encoding and persistance characteristics are different.
- ASalazarMX 2y agoIt's a crucial difference. Encoding and persistence in your genome means permanent changes, not for a few generations, PERMANENT. Epigenetic encoding and persistence is temporary, even if it expresses for more than one generation. Crucial difference, one is a mutation, the other an environmental adaptation.
- epgui 2y agoEssentially yes, and the article makes pretty clear that the changes last for generations. It's in the title and it's clear throughout the text of the article. So that's a totally moot point.