Introduction
Epigenetics refers to the study of how genes behave and express themselves depending on an individual’s environment and behavior. Recent studies have proven that a gene in a living organism may be expressive or remain dormant based on what a person consumes. Identical twins have the same gene constitution and DNA structure; they mirror each other in every aspect (Durbanzanrik, 2012). Nonetheless, as time progresses, they tend to develop differences that emanate from their variations in behavior and environment. A scientist from Duke University conducted a study on genetically identical mice; though similar, the mice were completely different in their physical appearance (Durbanzanrik, 2012). The mice had differently colored fur; some were fat and larger than others. The yellow-colored fur and plumpness are attributed to the agouti gene. In brown mice, the gene was blocked by a methyl group; however, in yellow mice, the gene is not blocked, which resulted in obesity.
The epigenome enables specific genes’ blocking and expression ability in living things. All organisms’ genes are identical but perform diverse functions in different body parts (Durbanzanrik, 2012). This is enabled by the epigenomes that instruct different direct cells. Nevertheless, these genes can be changed to produce the desired mice offspring; the scientist fed the yellow mice food rich in methyl to produce thin brown mice. The change was, however, short-lived when the new offspring began to eat normal food. The study proved that different organisms result from what their parent consumed. The research was extended to human subjects, primarily identical twins, and based on the study of their epigenomes (Durbanzanrik, 2012). It was discovered that younger twins were more similar than older twins. These differences were attributed to the different lifestyles that the older twins live.
The study explained why one of the twins could get cancer or any other disease that would only affect them and not their sibling. Scientists have discovered that through epigenetic treatment, they can treat cancerous cell with a DNA methyl group in a patient (Durbanzanrik, 2012). Through methylation, the cells are rearranged, and those previously not expressed are reactivated, enabling them to express themselves, hence the cancerous cells’ treatment. Epigenetic therapy has been successful in cancer treatment since it focuses on issuing new instructions to the affected cells instead of destroying them.
Salt-Sensitive Hypertension
Epigenetics plays a significant role in regulating disease structure by altering its genetic expression. The article, ‘Kidney and Epigenetic Mechanisms of Salt-Sensitive Hypertension,’ focuses on the study of how various epigenetic mechanisms in living organisms influence the development of salt-sensitive hypertension. Increased dietary salt intake predisposes an individual to high blood pressure (Kawarazaki & Fujita, 2021). The release of the methyl group on pathways of histone acetylation and the island of CpG has inhibited the development of the nephrons, thus resulting in hypertension. The study has proven that children of mothers who were dehydrated and had protein deficiency during pregnancy are more likely to develop high blood pressure. This is because the shortage of water and proteins promotes the expression of the renin-angiotensin genes. Mental stress among pregnant women prompts methyl transferase, a DNA methyl group that silences the CpG regions.
Nonetheless, age, environment, and genome composition influence salt sensitivity in living organisms. Aging may induce high blood pressure, and this is because as one ages, a methyl group may be produced to limit the kidneys from producing Klotho, which is the anti-aging factor (Kawarazaki & Fujita, 2021). Reduced Klotho production results in increased vascular pathways and salt sensitivity activation. Consequently, blood flow into the kidney is reduced due to an increase in marginal resistance. Methylation of the DNA influences various mechanisms of the kidney, which in turn induces salt sensitivity during fetal development and thus manifests in old age. Hypertension manifests itself in different perspectives depending on the type of epigenetic memory.
Health Improvement and Longevity
Besides my family connection, there are many other risk factors for high blood pressure. Therefore, it is essential to adopt and implement different strategies to help ensure I remain healthy. According to the ‘living to a 100 questionnaire’, I am likely to live to ninety-two years; this means I am less likely to get high blood pressure. Nonetheless, I will purpose live a healthy life to guarantee better health even in the future. Some of these practices involve maintaining healthy body weight, regular medical checkups, getting enough sleep, physical exercise, reduced alcohol consumption, and taking a healthy diet (Falkner & Lurbe, 2020). I will ensure to make regular appointments for medical checkups to ensure that I am in good health and be advised on how to prevent getting hypertension. I will adopt the DASH plan, which emphasizes a balanced diet and reduce the consumption of sodium, adequate potassium intake, fruits, and vegetables which are helpful to the body.
Evidence suggests that the risk of getting hypertension increases with the increase in one’s body weight; as such, I will ensure my weight is within normal range and my body mass index. I will do regular body exercises like jogging which will be significant in ensuring my blood pressure remains within the required level. Furthermore, I will devise a sleep schedule and stick to it to ensure I get adequate sleep (Falkner & Lurbe, 2020). In case of sleeping problems, I will consult with a certified medical professional to get the required help. Implementing these practices will improve my health and reduce my hypertension risk.
Conclusion
In recent years, researchers have dedicated their studies to epigenetics to understand how a person’s behavior and environment influence their genetic structuring. More so, it has been proven that parents can influence their children’s gene expression through what they eat. Diseases like hypertension have been attributed to changes in gene makeup whereby DNA methylation on specific cells curtails proper development of the nephron, which consequently causes hypertension. Different factors influence the manifestation of the effects of epigenetic blocking and expression. These factors include old age, physical environment, and obesity; as such, individuals have to focus on leading healthier lives by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, getting regular medical checkups, and maintaining body fitness.
References
Durbanzanrik. (2012). NOVA | Epigenetics [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Falkner, B., & Lurbe, E. (2020). Primordial prevention of high blood pressure in childhood: An opportunity not to be missed. Hypertension, 75(5), 1142-1150. Web.
Kawarazaki, W., & Fujita, T. (2021). Kidney and epigenetic mechanisms of salt-sensitive hypertension. Nature Reviews Nephrology, 17(5), 350-363. Web.