epigenome: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (specialised term)Technical/Academic (Molecular Biology, Genetics)
Quick answer
What does “epigenome” mean?
The complete set of chemical modifications (e.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The complete set of chemical modifications (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modifications) to a cell's DNA and histone proteins that regulate gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence.
In broader biological discourse, the epigenome also refers to the heritable pattern of gene activity and cellular identity established by these modifications, and to the field of study (epigenomics) mapping and analysing these modifications across the entire genome.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or spelling. Pronunciation differs slightly in the final vowel.
Connotations
Identical in technical contexts. It is a precise scientific term with no regional connotative variation.
Frequency
Used with equal, low frequency in both varieties, confined to scientific literature and discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “epigenome” in a Sentence
the epigenome of [noun phrase: e.g., the developing embryo]changes in the epigenomemapping of the epigenomeinheritance of an epigenomeVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “epigenome” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- The gene was epigenomically silenced in the tumour tissue.
- The regions were analysed epigenomically using high-throughput sequencing.
American English
- The trait is controlled epigenomically rather than through DNA mutations.
- Cells can be epigenomically reprogrammed to a pluripotent state.
adjective
British English
- The research team published a groundbreaking epigenomic atlas of the human brain.
- They conducted an epigenomic analysis to identify novel regulatory regions.
American English
- The project aims to create a comprehensive epigenomic map for major crops.
- Epigenomic alterations are a hallmark of many ageing-related diseases.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used, except potentially in highly specialised biotech or pharmaceutical investment contexts.
Academic
Core terminology in genetics, developmental biology, and medical research. Common in research papers, grants, and lectures.
Everyday
Extremely rare. May appear in popular science articles about health, heredity, or disease.
Technical
Standard, precise term in laboratory protocols, bioinformatics analyses, and scientific discussions in epigenetics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “epigenome”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “epigenome”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “epigenome”
- Misspelling as 'epi-genome' or 'epi genome'.
- Confusing 'epigenome' (the set of modifications) with 'epigenetics' (the study of it).
- Using it as an adjective (incorrect: 'epigenome changes'; correct: 'epigenomic' or 'epigenetic changes').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Some epigenetic marks can be inherited from parents to offspring (transgenerational epigenetic inheritance), but many are reset during embryonic development. It's a more flexible and dynamic form of inheritance than the DNA sequence itself.
The genome is the complete set of DNA sequences (genes and non-coding DNA). The epigenome is the set of chemical modifications and associated proteins on that DNA that dictate how, when, and where the genome's instructions are read and used.
Yes, the epigenome is dynamic and can change in response to environmental factors (diet, stress, toxins), developmental cues, and disease states. This plasticity is a key focus of epigenetic research.
Epigenomic dysregulation is involved in many diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and autoimmune conditions. Understanding it leads to potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapies targeting epigenetic mechanisms ('epigenetic drugs').
The complete set of chemical modifications (e.
Epigenome is usually technical/academic (molecular biology, genetics) in register.
Epigenome: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɛp.ɪˈdʒiː.nəʊm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɛp.ɪˈdʒiː.noʊm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'EPI-GENOME': EPI (like an EPIcentre, a central controlling point) is a layer ON TOP of the GENOME, controlling which genes are active.
Conceptual Metaphor
The epigenome is the 'software' or 'instruction manual' that tells the genetic 'hardware' (the genome) what to do and when.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of the epigenome?