University:
California State University, Los Angeles
Course:
BIOL 1010 | General Biology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

55

Pages:

2
Author:

Samuel C.

Unveiling the Epigenetic Landscape - Exploring the Role of Epigenetics in Renal Diseases Introduction: Epigenetics refers to the study of modifications in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence. These modifications can be inherited and can also be influenced by environmental factors. Epigenetics plays a crucial role in the development and progression of renal diseases. In this lecture, we will explore the epigenetic landscape of renal diseases and discuss the role of epigenetics in their pathogenesis. Epigenetic Modifications in Renal Diseases: Several epigenetic modifications have been identified to play a role in the pathogenesis of renal diseases. DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA are some of the key epigenetic mechanisms involved. Aberrant DNA methylation has been implicated in the development of diabetic nephropathy, IgA nephropathy, and lupus nephritis. Histone modifications, including acetylation and methylation, also contribute to the pathogenesis of renal diseases. Non-coding RNA, such as microRNA and long non-coding RNA, have been shown to regulate renal function and are involved in the development of renal diseases. Epigenetic Therapies in Renal Diseases: Targeting epigenetic modifications has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of renal diseases. Epigenetic therapies include drugs that modulate DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA expression. Some of the drugs used in epigenetic therapies for renal diseases include DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and small interfering RNA. Conclusion: Epigenetics plays a crucial role in the development and progression of renal diseases. Understanding the epigenetic landscape of renal diseases can provide new insights into their pathogenesis and identify potential therapeutic targets. Epigenetic therapies have shown promising results in preclinical studies, and further research is needed to evaluate their efficacy in clinical trials.