AP Psychology Biological Bases of Behavior 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The study of environmental influences on gene expression without a change in DNA is known as epigenetics. This field examines how factors such as diet, stress, and exposure to toxins can affect gene activity and expression mechanisms, affecting how genes are turned on or off without altering the underlying DNA sequence.

Epigenetics involves various processes including DNA methylation and histone modification, which can be heritable or reversible. For instance, changes in these mechanisms can impact an individual's phenotype and behavior in response to environmental stimuli, demonstrating a direct link between the environment and biological functioning at the genetic level.

Understanding epigenetics provides insights into how organisms adapt to their surroundings and may offer explanations for the development of certain diseases, including how lifestyle choices might influence genetic predispositions. This understanding is critical for advancing fields such as personalized medicine, where health interventions could be tailored based on an individual's unique genetic and epigenetic landscape.