RNA epigenetics

Although epigenetic changes were long thought to largely act on the genome, rather than as part of it, research is now showing that these patterns can, directly or indirectly, change the genetic code.

Evidence is mounting that epigenetic marks on DNA can influence future generations in a variety of ways. But how such phenomena might affect large-scale evolutionary processes is hotly debated.

Genetic variants that reduce the editing levels of double-stranded RNA are associated with autoimmune and immune-mediated conditions, a study finds.

The Tel Aviv University researcher is interested in how the macromolecules affect the health and behavior of successive generations of worms.

Understanding the biological roots of cooperation might help resolve some of the biggest scientific challenges we face.

Meet some of the people featured in the January 2016 issue of The Scientist.

DNA isn’t the only decorated nucleic acid in the cell. Modifications to RNA molecules are much more common and are critical for regulating diverse biological processes.