Abstract
Inheritance of a phenotype acquired in the somatic cells of an organism to the subsequent generation without the involvement of genetic machinery is termed transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TEI). The phenomenon of TEI has been observed across a wide variety of organisms including plant, invertebrates, mammals, and humans. Inheritance of altered phenotype is the consequence of inheritable epimutations and is transmitted through both paternal and maternal germ line. Epigenetic dynamics of germ lines has to be understood to decipher the various mechanisms by which an acquired phenotype is transmitted to the next generation. Errors in DNA methylation and histone reprogramming as well as the role of noncoding RNA in the transmission of the epimutations are widely being investigated. Several new hypotheses propose the role of extracellular vesicles and Hsp90 proteins in TEI. The contribution of TEI to interfere and thus bring about changes in organism ultimately leading to its evolution is also a subject gaining prominence.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
