NIH announces new initiative in e...(tting edge science said Dr. Alan Krensk...),Health

NIH hopes to achieve the following goals with the Epigenomics Program:

• Coordinate and develop a series of reference epigenome maps, analogous to genome maps, which will be publicly available to facilitate research in human health and disease.

• Evaluate epigenetic mechanisms in aging, development, environmental exposure including physical and chemical exposures, behavioral and social environments, and modifiers of stress.

• Develop new technologies for epigenetic analysis of single cells and imaging of epigenetic activity in living organisms.

• Engage the international community to define standard practices and platforms, to develop new laboratory tools such as antibodies.

The overall hypothesis of the NIH Roadmap Epigenomics Program is that the origins of health and susceptibility to disease are, in part, the result of epigenetic regulation of the genetic blueprint. Researchers believe that understanding how and when epigenetic processes control genes during different stages of development and throughout life will lead to more effective ways to prevent and treat disease.

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