Jerome Kagan
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199755059
- eISBN:
- 9780199979479
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199755059.003.0007
- Subject:
- Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology
Epigenetic discoveries are having a profound effect on investigators trying to find links between genetics, on the one hand, and physiology and behavior on the other. The findings have yet to ...
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Epigenetic discoveries are having a profound effect on investigators trying to find links between genetics, on the one hand, and physiology and behavior on the other. The findings have yet to influence psychological methods, theory, and basic assumptions about human development.Less
Epigenetic discoveries are having a profound effect on investigators trying to find links between genetics, on the one hand, and physiology and behavior on the other. The findings have yet to influence psychological methods, theory, and basic assumptions about human development.
Margaret Lock
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691149783
- eISBN:
- 9781400848461
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691149783.003.0009
- Subject:
- Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology
This chapter demonstrates a reader-friendly discussion about the shift in orientation by molecular biologists away from genes per se, into the wider fields of genomics and epigenetics—that is, to the ...
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This chapter demonstrates a reader-friendly discussion about the shift in orientation by molecular biologists away from genes per se, into the wider fields of genomics and epigenetics—that is, to the contextualization of genes. Emphasis is given by many of these researchers to the dynamic interaction of DNA with both micro-environments internal to the body and macro-environments external to the body, and their interrelationship. This approach takes into account individual developmental and life course experiences that may bring about long-lasting modification to or even permanent changes in gene function. These emerging epigenetic models embrace complexity and acknowledge irresolvable uncertainty. The effects of historical, political, and social environments on individual biology and lived experience are also recognized, but thus far only spottily researched.Less
This chapter demonstrates a reader-friendly discussion about the shift in orientation by molecular biologists away from genes per se, into the wider fields of genomics and epigenetics—that is, to the contextualization of genes. Emphasis is given by many of these researchers to the dynamic interaction of DNA with both micro-environments internal to the body and macro-environments external to the body, and their interrelationship. This approach takes into account individual developmental and life course experiences that may bring about long-lasting modification to or even permanent changes in gene function. These emerging epigenetic models embrace complexity and acknowledge irresolvable uncertainty. The effects of historical, political, and social environments on individual biology and lived experience are also recognized, but thus far only spottily researched.
Margaret Lock
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691149783
- eISBN:
- 9781400848461
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691149783.003.0011
- Subject:
- Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology
This concluding chapter presents emerging knowledge in both epigenetics and epidemiology, suggesting that forms of prevention that take a public health approach, including lifestyle changes, reduced ...
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This concluding chapter presents emerging knowledge in both epigenetics and epidemiology, suggesting that forms of prevention that take a public health approach, including lifestyle changes, reduced exposure to toxins, reductions in poverty, increased community support, and other variables, is likely to reduce the prevalence of dementia worldwide to a much greater extent than would an approach confined to expensive molecular micro-medical management of segments of those populations deemed to be at risk that happen to be located in wealthier countries. Furthermore, a molecular approach to Alzheimer disease prevention requires healthy individuals, some as young as 18 years of age, to become research subjects on whom repeated tests will be carried out.Less
This concluding chapter presents emerging knowledge in both epigenetics and epidemiology, suggesting that forms of prevention that take a public health approach, including lifestyle changes, reduced exposure to toxins, reductions in poverty, increased community support, and other variables, is likely to reduce the prevalence of dementia worldwide to a much greater extent than would an approach confined to expensive molecular micro-medical management of segments of those populations deemed to be at risk that happen to be located in wealthier countries. Furthermore, a molecular approach to Alzheimer disease prevention requires healthy individuals, some as young as 18 years of age, to become research subjects on whom repeated tests will be carried out.
Mukesh Verma
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195398441
- eISBN:
- 9780199776023
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195398441.003.0028
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
Epigenetics, the study of mechanisms that involve mitotically heritable changes in DNA other than changes in nucleotide sequence, represents a new frontier in research, especially in cancer. Most of ...
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Epigenetics, the study of mechanisms that involve mitotically heritable changes in DNA other than changes in nucleotide sequence, represents a new frontier in research, especially in cancer. Most of our cells contain the same DNA, yet gene expression varies dramatically among different tissues. Epigenetic mechanisms establish and maintain this tissue-specific gene expression. Various chemicals (such as nickel, arsenic, cadmium), certain base analogs, radiation, smoke, stress, hormones (such as estradiol), and reactive oxygen species can alter the phenotypes of mammalian cells, via epigenetic mechanisms, without changing the underlying DNA sequence. These agents can alter the methylation and/or acetylation state of the DNA. Contrary to mutations, epigenetic changes can be reversed by chemicals and thus provide opportunities for development of intervention and treatment strategies. Epigenetic markers could be used in cancer detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and epidemiology. This chapter discusses research opportunities at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), one of the 27 Institutes and Centers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and efforts to complete human epigenome.Less
Epigenetics, the study of mechanisms that involve mitotically heritable changes in DNA other than changes in nucleotide sequence, represents a new frontier in research, especially in cancer. Most of our cells contain the same DNA, yet gene expression varies dramatically among different tissues. Epigenetic mechanisms establish and maintain this tissue-specific gene expression. Various chemicals (such as nickel, arsenic, cadmium), certain base analogs, radiation, smoke, stress, hormones (such as estradiol), and reactive oxygen species can alter the phenotypes of mammalian cells, via epigenetic mechanisms, without changing the underlying DNA sequence. These agents can alter the methylation and/or acetylation state of the DNA. Contrary to mutations, epigenetic changes can be reversed by chemicals and thus provide opportunities for development of intervention and treatment strategies. Epigenetic markers could be used in cancer detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and epidemiology. This chapter discusses research opportunities at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), one of the 27 Institutes and Centers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and efforts to complete human epigenome.
Stephen J. Simpson and David Raubenheimer
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691145655
- eISBN:
- 9781400842803
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691145655.003.0011
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
This concluding chapter looks at some of the big issues that remain in nutritional biology. Exploding protein into its constituent amino acids means having to deal with 19 extra dimensions, which is ...
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This concluding chapter looks at some of the big issues that remain in nutritional biology. Exploding protein into its constituent amino acids means having to deal with 19 extra dimensions, which is fine in theory but daunting in practice. However, such an expansion is what will be needed to understand the mechanisms of protein appetite, the role of protein in aging, obesity, and immune function, or the behavioral and metabolic consequences of replacing marine-based animal proteins with plant-derived alternatives in the diets of farmed fish. The next step will be to associate primary response variables such as life span, disease susceptibility, and fecundity with associated physiological, metabolic, and geometric responses. Other issues include nutritional epigenetics and early-life prevention of metabolic disease, human obesity, nutritional immunology, and modeling nutritional interactions.Less
This concluding chapter looks at some of the big issues that remain in nutritional biology. Exploding protein into its constituent amino acids means having to deal with 19 extra dimensions, which is fine in theory but daunting in practice. However, such an expansion is what will be needed to understand the mechanisms of protein appetite, the role of protein in aging, obesity, and immune function, or the behavioral and metabolic consequences of replacing marine-based animal proteins with plant-derived alternatives in the diets of farmed fish. The next step will be to associate primary response variables such as life span, disease susceptibility, and fecundity with associated physiological, metabolic, and geometric responses. Other issues include nutritional epigenetics and early-life prevention of metabolic disease, human obesity, nutritional immunology, and modeling nutritional interactions.
Eileen A. Dombo and Christine Anlauf Sabatino
- Published in print:
- 2019
- Published Online:
- March 2019
- ISBN:
- 9780190873806
- eISBN:
- 9780190873837
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780190873806.003.0003
- Subject:
- Social Work, Children and Families, Communities and Organizations
Research shows that children and adolescents who experience abuse and neglect have lower learning outcomes, higher rates of learning difficulties, and higher rates of mental health disorders and ...
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Research shows that children and adolescents who experience abuse and neglect have lower learning outcomes, higher rates of learning difficulties, and higher rates of mental health disorders and behavioral challenges than children without these traumatic experiences. Chapter 3 explores some of the common social, emotional, behavioral, and academic issues seen in children who experience trauma. Information to help school social workers with the process of differential diagnosis and differentiation among symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, and the cognitive and intellectual issues that require special education is provided. Information on epigenetics is also explored to connect the biological, psychological, and social domains in assessing children and adolescents.Less
Research shows that children and adolescents who experience abuse and neglect have lower learning outcomes, higher rates of learning difficulties, and higher rates of mental health disorders and behavioral challenges than children without these traumatic experiences. Chapter 3 explores some of the common social, emotional, behavioral, and academic issues seen in children who experience trauma. Information to help school social workers with the process of differential diagnosis and differentiation among symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, and the cognitive and intellectual issues that require special education is provided. Information on epigenetics is also explored to connect the biological, psychological, and social domains in assessing children and adolescents.
John Dupré
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- May 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199691982
- eISBN:
- 9780191738111
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199691982.001.0001
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Science
This volume collects essays written by John Dupré during his time as Director of the ESRC centre for Genomics in Society, and reflects his interest in the implications of emerging ideas in biology ...
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This volume collects essays written by John Dupré during his time as Director of the ESRC centre for Genomics in Society, and reflects his interest in the implications of emerging ideas in biology for philosophy. Particular interests include: epigenetics and related areas of molecular biology that have eroded the exceptional status of the gene, and presented the genome as fully interactive with the rest of the cell; developmental systems theory which, especially in the light of epigenetics, provides a space for a vision of evolution that takes full account of the fundamental importance of developmental processes; and microbiology, the elephant in the room of contemporary philosophy of biology. The emphasis on the importance of microbes is perhaps the most distinctive theme of the essays, and one that is shown to subvert such basic biological assumptions as the organization of biological kinds on a branching Tree of Life, and the simple traditional conception of the biological organism. These topics are understood in the context of a view of science, partly taken from earlier work, but developed further in some of the present essays, as realistically grounded in the natural order, but at the same time pluralistic and inextricably integrated within a social and normative context. Topics to which these philosophical and scientific ideas are addressed include the nature of the organism, the limits of neo-Darwinian evolutionary theory, the significance of genomics, the biological status of human races, and the evolutionary and developmental plasticity of human nature.Less
This volume collects essays written by John Dupré during his time as Director of the ESRC centre for Genomics in Society, and reflects his interest in the implications of emerging ideas in biology for philosophy. Particular interests include: epigenetics and related areas of molecular biology that have eroded the exceptional status of the gene, and presented the genome as fully interactive with the rest of the cell; developmental systems theory which, especially in the light of epigenetics, provides a space for a vision of evolution that takes full account of the fundamental importance of developmental processes; and microbiology, the elephant in the room of contemporary philosophy of biology. The emphasis on the importance of microbes is perhaps the most distinctive theme of the essays, and one that is shown to subvert such basic biological assumptions as the organization of biological kinds on a branching Tree of Life, and the simple traditional conception of the biological organism. These topics are understood in the context of a view of science, partly taken from earlier work, but developed further in some of the present essays, as realistically grounded in the natural order, but at the same time pluralistic and inextricably integrated within a social and normative context. Topics to which these philosophical and scientific ideas are addressed include the nature of the organism, the limits of neo-Darwinian evolutionary theory, the significance of genomics, the biological status of human races, and the evolutionary and developmental plasticity of human nature.
Victoria Pitts-Taylor (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- January 2017
- ISBN:
- 9781479833498
- eISBN:
- 9781479842308
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9781479833498.001.0001
- Subject:
- Sociology, Gender and Sexuality
21st Century feminists are re-imagining nature, biology, and matter in feminist thought and critically addressing new developments in biology, physics, neuroscience, epigenetics and other scientific ...
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21st Century feminists are re-imagining nature, biology, and matter in feminist thought and critically addressing new developments in biology, physics, neuroscience, epigenetics and other scientific disciplines. This volume presents contemporary feminist perspectives on the materialist or ‘naturalizing’ turn in feminist theory, and also represents the newest wave of feminist engagement with science. The volume addresses the relationship between human corporeality and subjectivity, questions and redefines the boundaries of human/non-human and nature/culture, elaborates on the entanglements of matter, knowledge, and practice, and addresses biological materialization as a complex and open process. This volume insists that feminist theory can take matter and biology seriously while also accounting for power. The authors take materialism as a point of departure to rethink key feminist issues, such as intersectionality, representation, performativity, methodology, post-colonialism, and biopolitics. The authors also apply concepts in contemporary materialist feminism to examine an array of topics in science, biotechnology, biopolitics, and bioethics. These include neural plasticity and the brain-machine interface; the use of biometrical identification technologies for transnational border control; epigenetics and the intergenerational transmission of the health effects of social stigma; ADHD and neuropharmacology; and randomized controlled trials of HIV drugs. They also address the histories of toxicology and neuroenhancement, and the use of neuropsychiatric drugs in prisons. The volume presents in grounded, concrete terms the need for rethinking disciplinary boundaries and research methodologies in light of the shifts in feminist theorizing.Less
21st Century feminists are re-imagining nature, biology, and matter in feminist thought and critically addressing new developments in biology, physics, neuroscience, epigenetics and other scientific disciplines. This volume presents contemporary feminist perspectives on the materialist or ‘naturalizing’ turn in feminist theory, and also represents the newest wave of feminist engagement with science. The volume addresses the relationship between human corporeality and subjectivity, questions and redefines the boundaries of human/non-human and nature/culture, elaborates on the entanglements of matter, knowledge, and practice, and addresses biological materialization as a complex and open process. This volume insists that feminist theory can take matter and biology seriously while also accounting for power. The authors take materialism as a point of departure to rethink key feminist issues, such as intersectionality, representation, performativity, methodology, post-colonialism, and biopolitics. The authors also apply concepts in contemporary materialist feminism to examine an array of topics in science, biotechnology, biopolitics, and bioethics. These include neural plasticity and the brain-machine interface; the use of biometrical identification technologies for transnational border control; epigenetics and the intergenerational transmission of the health effects of social stigma; ADHD and neuropharmacology; and randomized controlled trials of HIV drugs. They also address the histories of toxicology and neuroenhancement, and the use of neuropsychiatric drugs in prisons. The volume presents in grounded, concrete terms the need for rethinking disciplinary boundaries and research methodologies in light of the shifts in feminist theorizing.
Bob Heyman
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198569008
- eISBN:
- 9780191717499
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198569008.003.05
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
This chapter explores the role of temporal considerations in risk-thinking. It argues that risk-thinkers maintain a resolutely forward-looking orientation, but cannot avoid placing temporal horizons ...
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This chapter explores the role of temporal considerations in risk-thinking. It argues that risk-thinkers maintain a resolutely forward-looking orientation, but cannot avoid placing temporal horizons around their assessments, without which risks would become uncalculable. The lifespan is by no means the only time frame that can be applied. Some health risks, e.g. those transmitted epigenetically, span two or more generations. Shortening the future period under consideration may flatter healthcare interventions such as smoking cessation, or stack the odds in favour of new pharmaceuticals. Standard time frames such as 5-year survival do not necessarily match those of directly affected individuals. The issue of time-discounting within selected temporal horizons is then considered. Finally, future-oriented perspectives are contrasted with the retrospective accounting that occurs with hindsight after an adverse outcome is seen to have or have not occurred.Less
This chapter explores the role of temporal considerations in risk-thinking. It argues that risk-thinkers maintain a resolutely forward-looking orientation, but cannot avoid placing temporal horizons around their assessments, without which risks would become uncalculable. The lifespan is by no means the only time frame that can be applied. Some health risks, e.g. those transmitted epigenetically, span two or more generations. Shortening the future period under consideration may flatter healthcare interventions such as smoking cessation, or stack the odds in favour of new pharmaceuticals. Standard time frames such as 5-year survival do not necessarily match those of directly affected individuals. The issue of time-discounting within selected temporal horizons is then considered. Finally, future-oriented perspectives are contrasted with the retrospective accounting that occurs with hindsight after an adverse outcome is seen to have or have not occurred.
John Dupré
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- May 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199691982
- eISBN:
- 9780191738111
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199691982.003.0001
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Science
This introduction introduces the central themes that run through the following chapters, and provides a brief summary of the main theses defended in the chapters.
This introduction introduces the central themes that run through the following chapters, and provides a brief summary of the main theses defended in the chapters.
Karl S. Matlin, Jane Maienschein, and Manfred D. Laubichler (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- September 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780226520483
- eISBN:
- 9780226520650
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of Chicago Press
- DOI:
- 10.7208/chicago/9780226520650.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Biochemistry / Molecular Biology
Although cell biology is often considered to have arisen following World War II in tandem with certain technological developments—in particular, the electron microscope and cell fractionation—its ...
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Although cell biology is often considered to have arisen following World War II in tandem with certain technological developments—in particular, the electron microscope and cell fractionation—its origins actually date to the 1830s and the development of cytology, the scientific study of cells. By 1924, with the publication of Edmund Vincent Cowdry’s General Cytology, the discipline had stretched beyond the bounds of purely microscopic observation to include as well the chemical, physical, and genetic analysis of cells. Inspired by this classic, watershed work, Visions of Cell Biology collects contributions from cell biologists, historians, and philosophers of science to explore the history and current status of cell biology. Despite extraordinary advances in describing both the structure and function of cells, cell biology tends to be overshadowed by molecular biology, a field that developed contemporaneously. This book remedies that unjust disparity through an investigation of cell biology’s evolution. Contributors show that modern concepts of cell organization, mechanistic explanation, epigenetics, molecular thinking, and even computational approaches all can be placed on the continuum of cell studies from cytology to cell biology and beyond.Less
Although cell biology is often considered to have arisen following World War II in tandem with certain technological developments—in particular, the electron microscope and cell fractionation—its origins actually date to the 1830s and the development of cytology, the scientific study of cells. By 1924, with the publication of Edmund Vincent Cowdry’s General Cytology, the discipline had stretched beyond the bounds of purely microscopic observation to include as well the chemical, physical, and genetic analysis of cells. Inspired by this classic, watershed work, Visions of Cell Biology collects contributions from cell biologists, historians, and philosophers of science to explore the history and current status of cell biology. Despite extraordinary advances in describing both the structure and function of cells, cell biology tends to be overshadowed by molecular biology, a field that developed contemporaneously. This book remedies that unjust disparity through an investigation of cell biology’s evolution. Contributors show that modern concepts of cell organization, mechanistic explanation, epigenetics, molecular thinking, and even computational approaches all can be placed on the continuum of cell studies from cytology to cell biology and beyond.
David Wastell and Susan White
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- September 2017
- ISBN:
- 9781447322337
- eISBN:
- 9781447322351
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Policy Press
- DOI:
- 10.1332/policypress/9781447322337.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Public Policy
In recent years, new areas of biology, especially epigenetics and neuroscience, have enthralled the public imagination. They have been used as powerful arguments for developing social policy in a ...
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In recent years, new areas of biology, especially epigenetics and neuroscience, have enthralled the public imagination. They have been used as powerful arguments for developing social policy in a particular direction, from early intervention in the lives of disadvantaged children to seeking 'biomarkers' as identifiers of criminality. This book critically examines the capabilities and limitations of these biotechnologies, exploring their implications for policy and practice. The book will enable social scientists, policy makers, practitioners and interested general readers to understand how the new biologies of epigenetics and neuroscience have increasingly influenced the fields of family policy, mental health, child development and criminal justice. The book will facilitate much needed debate about what makes a good society and how best to build one. It also draws attention to the ways that the uncertainties of the original science are lost in their translation into the everyday world of practice and policy, and how the primary work is co-opted and manipulated to support particular moral agendas.Less
In recent years, new areas of biology, especially epigenetics and neuroscience, have enthralled the public imagination. They have been used as powerful arguments for developing social policy in a particular direction, from early intervention in the lives of disadvantaged children to seeking 'biomarkers' as identifiers of criminality. This book critically examines the capabilities and limitations of these biotechnologies, exploring their implications for policy and practice. The book will enable social scientists, policy makers, practitioners and interested general readers to understand how the new biologies of epigenetics and neuroscience have increasingly influenced the fields of family policy, mental health, child development and criminal justice. The book will facilitate much needed debate about what makes a good society and how best to build one. It also draws attention to the ways that the uncertainties of the original science are lost in their translation into the everyday world of practice and policy, and how the primary work is co-opted and manipulated to support particular moral agendas.
Darcia Narvaez, Jaak Panksepp, Allan N. Schore, and Tracy R. Gleason (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199755059
- eISBN:
- 9780199979479
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199755059.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology
The field of cognitive psychology is in a state of empirical abundance, and experts now know more about mammalian brain function than ever before. In contrast, psychological problems such as ADHD, ...
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The field of cognitive psychology is in a state of empirical abundance, and experts now know more about mammalian brain function than ever before. In contrast, psychological problems such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression are on the rise, as are medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune disorders. Why, in this era of unprecedented scientific self-knowledge, does there seem to be so much uncertainty about what humans need for optimal development? Evolution, Early Experience and Human Development asserts that human development is being misshaped by government policies, social practices, and public beliefs that fail to consider basic human needs. In this pioneering volume, scientists from a range of disciplines theorize that the rise of problems like depression and obesity is partially attributable to a disparity between the environments and conditions under which our mammalian brains currently develop and those in which the brains of our distant ancestors developed—and evolved to suit. These early environments and conditions have been named the environment of evolutionary adaptedness, or EEA. For example, healthy brain and emotional development depends to a significant extent on caregiver availability and quality of care, which is argued to be in decline by some experts; in addition, practices such as breastfeeding, cosleeping, and parental social support, which have waned in modern society, may be integral to healthy infant development. As the authors argue, without a more informed appreciation of the ideal conditions under which human brains develop and function, human beings will continue to struggle with maintaining mental and physical health, and psychological treatments will not be effective. Evolution, Early Experience and Human Development puts forth a logical, empirically based argument regarding human mammalian needs for optimal development, based on research from anthropology, neurobiology, animal science, and human development. The result is a unique exploration of evolutionary approaches to human behavior that will support the development of new policies, new attitudes toward health, and alterations in childcare practices that will better promote optimal human development.Less
The field of cognitive psychology is in a state of empirical abundance, and experts now know more about mammalian brain function than ever before. In contrast, psychological problems such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression are on the rise, as are medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune disorders. Why, in this era of unprecedented scientific self-knowledge, does there seem to be so much uncertainty about what humans need for optimal development? Evolution, Early Experience and Human Development asserts that human development is being misshaped by government policies, social practices, and public beliefs that fail to consider basic human needs. In this pioneering volume, scientists from a range of disciplines theorize that the rise of problems like depression and obesity is partially attributable to a disparity between the environments and conditions under which our mammalian brains currently develop and those in which the brains of our distant ancestors developed—and evolved to suit. These early environments and conditions have been named the environment of evolutionary adaptedness, or EEA. For example, healthy brain and emotional development depends to a significant extent on caregiver availability and quality of care, which is argued to be in decline by some experts; in addition, practices such as breastfeeding, cosleeping, and parental social support, which have waned in modern society, may be integral to healthy infant development. As the authors argue, without a more informed appreciation of the ideal conditions under which human brains develop and function, human beings will continue to struggle with maintaining mental and physical health, and psychological treatments will not be effective. Evolution, Early Experience and Human Development puts forth a logical, empirically based argument regarding human mammalian needs for optimal development, based on research from anthropology, neurobiology, animal science, and human development. The result is a unique exploration of evolutionary approaches to human behavior that will support the development of new policies, new attitudes toward health, and alterations in childcare practices that will better promote optimal human development.
Camilla Stoltenberg and Andrew Pickles
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198528487
- eISBN:
- 9780191723940
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528487.003.0004
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
The need to investigate genetic aetiology has led to studies of an unprecedented size and cost. This chapter reviews designs, methods of genetic analysis, and some current major studies including ...
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The need to investigate genetic aetiology has led to studies of an unprecedented size and cost. This chapter reviews designs, methods of genetic analysis, and some current major studies including case-control, cohort, and collaborative studies. It assesses critically the potential of these major data sources for life course research.Less
The need to investigate genetic aetiology has led to studies of an unprecedented size and cost. This chapter reviews designs, methods of genetic analysis, and some current major studies including case-control, cohort, and collaborative studies. It assesses critically the potential of these major data sources for life course research.
Andrew Pickles, Barbara Maughan, and Michael Wadsworth
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198528487
- eISBN:
- 9780191723940
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528487.003.0010
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
Existing data resources have been used opportunistically to develop thinking about early life beginnings of life long vulnerability, and about long-term exposure to risk. These data resources can ...
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Existing data resources have been used opportunistically to develop thinking about early life beginnings of life long vulnerability, and about long-term exposure to risk. These data resources can provide more insights with new methods of analysis, and possibly pooling and greater harmonization of new data collection. The new, larger, and interdisciplinary life course data resources being developed for epigenetic research will use new methods to measure the impact of current environmental challenges, and should consider in their design the value of data missing by design.Less
Existing data resources have been used opportunistically to develop thinking about early life beginnings of life long vulnerability, and about long-term exposure to risk. These data resources can provide more insights with new methods of analysis, and possibly pooling and greater harmonization of new data collection. The new, larger, and interdisciplinary life course data resources being developed for epigenetic research will use new methods to measure the impact of current environmental challenges, and should consider in their design the value of data missing by design.
Robert L. Perlman
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- December 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199661718
- eISBN:
- 9780191774720
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199661718.003.0003
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics
Evolution is often thought of in genetic terms, as a change in allele frequencies and in the phenotypes associated with these alleles in populations over time. Several evolutionary processes in ...
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Evolution is often thought of in genetic terms, as a change in allele frequencies and in the phenotypes associated with these alleles in populations over time. Several evolutionary processes in addition to selection — mutation, genetic drift, and gene flow — can change allele frequencies and increase the frequency of disease-associated alleles in populations. When they happen to be linked to beneficial alleles, deleterious or disease-associated alleles may also spread by genetic hitchhiking. Frequency dependent selection, heterozygote advantage, and environmental heterogeneity all contribute to the maintenance of genetic polymorphisms, the existence of multiple alleles of a gene. Most genes are pleiotropic; they have multiple phenotypic effects. The spread of alleles of pleiotropic genes depends upon the balance between their beneficial and deleterious effects. Epigenetic mechanisms, heritable changes in gene expression and therefore in phenotype that are not dependent on changes in DNA sequence, include DNA methylation, covalent modifications of histones, and expression of noncoding regulatory RNA molecules. The Hardy-Weinberg model is an idealized model that provides a starting point for thinking about the relationship between allele frequencies and genotype frequencies. The dramatic growth of the human population since the agricultural revolution has resulted in the production of many new, rare, alleles, some of which may be associated with disease. Contrary to what some people believe, the human population is subject to ongoing natural selection.Less
Evolution is often thought of in genetic terms, as a change in allele frequencies and in the phenotypes associated with these alleles in populations over time. Several evolutionary processes in addition to selection — mutation, genetic drift, and gene flow — can change allele frequencies and increase the frequency of disease-associated alleles in populations. When they happen to be linked to beneficial alleles, deleterious or disease-associated alleles may also spread by genetic hitchhiking. Frequency dependent selection, heterozygote advantage, and environmental heterogeneity all contribute to the maintenance of genetic polymorphisms, the existence of multiple alleles of a gene. Most genes are pleiotropic; they have multiple phenotypic effects. The spread of alleles of pleiotropic genes depends upon the balance between their beneficial and deleterious effects. Epigenetic mechanisms, heritable changes in gene expression and therefore in phenotype that are not dependent on changes in DNA sequence, include DNA methylation, covalent modifications of histones, and expression of noncoding regulatory RNA molecules. The Hardy-Weinberg model is an idealized model that provides a starting point for thinking about the relationship between allele frequencies and genotype frequencies. The dramatic growth of the human population since the agricultural revolution has resulted in the production of many new, rare, alleles, some of which may be associated with disease. Contrary to what some people believe, the human population is subject to ongoing natural selection.
Anthony D. Pellegrini and Adam F. A. Pellegrini
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199755059
- eISBN:
- 9780199979479
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199755059.003.0021
- Subject:
- Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology
This chapter contrasts the authors’ epigenetic position with an environment of evolutionary adaptedness (EEA) position, as represented in evolutionary psychology and its intellectual forbearer, ...
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This chapter contrasts the authors’ epigenetic position with an environment of evolutionary adaptedness (EEA) position, as represented in evolutionary psychology and its intellectual forbearer, sociobiology. In contrast to the EEA/evolutionary psychology position, this chapter stresses the importance of developmental plasticity during early ontogeny and how play, specifically, might affect the course of development, behavior, and possibly evolution. The chapter shows how epigenetic theories highlight the impact of the environment and behavior in the ontogenetic process as part of the organism's dynamic adaptation to ever-changing ecological niches. Play, the chapter argues, is a paradigm example of a behavioral strategy used by juveniles to explore and subsequently acclimate to or change their current niche. The variation in ability to use play as an acclimation strategy is hypothesized to impact evolution, assuming it contains some genetic basis. To this end, the final section of the chapter outlines ways in which play affects both ontogeny and phylogeny.Less
This chapter contrasts the authors’ epigenetic position with an environment of evolutionary adaptedness (EEA) position, as represented in evolutionary psychology and its intellectual forbearer, sociobiology. In contrast to the EEA/evolutionary psychology position, this chapter stresses the importance of developmental plasticity during early ontogeny and how play, specifically, might affect the course of development, behavior, and possibly evolution. The chapter shows how epigenetic theories highlight the impact of the environment and behavior in the ontogenetic process as part of the organism's dynamic adaptation to ever-changing ecological niches. Play, the chapter argues, is a paradigm example of a behavioral strategy used by juveniles to explore and subsequently acclimate to or change their current niche. The variation in ability to use play as an acclimation strategy is hypothesized to impact evolution, assuming it contains some genetic basis. To this end, the final section of the chapter outlines ways in which play affects both ontogeny and phylogeny.
Michael J. Meaney
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199755059
- eISBN:
- 9780199979479
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199755059.003.0006
- Subject:
- Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology
There are enduring effects of early experience on neural function. Such effects are often referred to under the rubric of “developmental programming.” This chapter reviews the emerging evidence for ...
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There are enduring effects of early experience on neural function. Such effects are often referred to under the rubric of “developmental programming.” This chapter reviews the emerging evidence for epigenetics as a candidate mechanism for such effects. Epigenetics refers to functionally relevant modifications to the genome that do not involve a change in nucleotide sequence and focuses on the study chemical modifications to chromatin that regulate transcription at specific genomic sites. Environmental events can directly modify the epigenetic states. Studies with rodent models suggest that during both early development and in adult life, environmental signals activate intracellular pathways that directly remodel the “epigenome,” leading to changes in gene expression and neural function. While essentially correlational, clinical studies implicate epigenetic mechanisms in the pathophysiology of human disease. These studies define a biological basis for the interplay between environmental signals and the genome in the regulation of individual differences in neural function.Less
There are enduring effects of early experience on neural function. Such effects are often referred to under the rubric of “developmental programming.” This chapter reviews the emerging evidence for epigenetics as a candidate mechanism for such effects. Epigenetics refers to functionally relevant modifications to the genome that do not involve a change in nucleotide sequence and focuses on the study chemical modifications to chromatin that regulate transcription at specific genomic sites. Environmental events can directly modify the epigenetic states. Studies with rodent models suggest that during both early development and in adult life, environmental signals activate intracellular pathways that directly remodel the “epigenome,” leading to changes in gene expression and neural function. While essentially correlational, clinical studies implicate epigenetic mechanisms in the pathophysiology of human disease. These studies define a biological basis for the interplay between environmental signals and the genome in the regulation of individual differences in neural function.
Paul Haggarty and Anne C Ferguson-Smith
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- January 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199656516
- eISBN:
- 9780191748042
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199656516.003.0015
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
Because of their dynamic and heritable properties, epigenetic mechanisms have emerged as a promising biological explanation linking events and exposures across life to long-term health. Epigenetics ...
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Because of their dynamic and heritable properties, epigenetic mechanisms have emerged as a promising biological explanation linking events and exposures across life to long-term health. Epigenetics also provides a useful conceptual model on which to base intervention strategies to improve healthy ageing. Epigenetic mechanisms involve the modification of DNA in ways that influence structure and function. Epigenotype is influenced by genotype but unlike genotype there is the potential for modification. Epigenetic states have been implicated in a wide range of diseases though the mechanisms are not fully understood. There is evidence for nutritional and behavioural programming of epigenetic states, with early life and the period before birth being particularly important. There is some evidence that epigenetic states resulting from adverse events/exposures at earlier life stages may be reversible. Epigenetic states have the potential to provide markers of biological age and objective markers of complex exposures in life course studies.Less
Because of their dynamic and heritable properties, epigenetic mechanisms have emerged as a promising biological explanation linking events and exposures across life to long-term health. Epigenetics also provides a useful conceptual model on which to base intervention strategies to improve healthy ageing. Epigenetic mechanisms involve the modification of DNA in ways that influence structure and function. Epigenotype is influenced by genotype but unlike genotype there is the potential for modification. Epigenetic states have been implicated in a wide range of diseases though the mechanisms are not fully understood. There is evidence for nutritional and behavioural programming of epigenetic states, with early life and the period before birth being particularly important. There is some evidence that epigenetic states resulting from adverse events/exposures at earlier life stages may be reversible. Epigenetic states have the potential to provide markers of biological age and objective markers of complex exposures in life course studies.
John C. Lucchesi
- Published in print:
- 2019
- Published Online:
- March 2019
- ISBN:
- 9780198831204
- eISBN:
- 9780191869266
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198831204.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics, Biochemistry / Molecular Biology
Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence. Epigenetic changes, consisting principally of DNA methylation, histone modifications ...
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Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence. Epigenetic changes, consisting principally of DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs, maintain and modulate the initial impact of regulatory factors that recognize and associate with particular genomic sequences. This book’s primary goal is to establish a framework that can be used to understand the basis of epigenetic regulation and to appreciate both its derivation from genetics and its interdependence with genetic mechanisms. A further aim is to highlight the role played by the three-dimensional organization of the genetic material itself (the complex of DNA, histones and non-histone proteins referred to as chromatin) and its distribution within a functionally compartmentalized nucleus. Dysfunctions at any level of genetic regulation have the potential to result in an increased susceptibility to disease or actually give rise to overt pathologies. As illustrated in this book, research is continuously uncovering the role of epigenetics in a variety of human disorders, providing new avenues for therapeutic interventions and advances in regenerative medicine.Less
Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence. Epigenetic changes, consisting principally of DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs, maintain and modulate the initial impact of regulatory factors that recognize and associate with particular genomic sequences. This book’s primary goal is to establish a framework that can be used to understand the basis of epigenetic regulation and to appreciate both its derivation from genetics and its interdependence with genetic mechanisms. A further aim is to highlight the role played by the three-dimensional organization of the genetic material itself (the complex of DNA, histones and non-histone proteins referred to as chromatin) and its distribution within a functionally compartmentalized nucleus. Dysfunctions at any level of genetic regulation have the potential to result in an increased susceptibility to disease or actually give rise to overt pathologies. As illustrated in this book, research is continuously uncovering the role of epigenetics in a variety of human disorders, providing new avenues for therapeutic interventions and advances in regenerative medicine.
