epimutational means relating to epimutations.
Why “epimutational” is a great word
Relating to or involving heritable changes in gene expression not caused by alterations in the DNA sequence. From the prefix epi- (Greek ἐπί, meaning “upon, over”) combined with mutational (relating to mutation). Unlike “mutational” (which refers to changes in the primary DNA nucleotide sequence) or “epigenetic” (a broader term encompassing all heritable changes in gene function not due to DNA sequence variation), epimutational describes discrete, mutation-like shifts in chromatin state or DNA methylation that alter gene activity without rewriting the genetic code. It is the methyl group clinging like a barnacle to a CpG island, the histone tail acetylated into a new configuration, the imprinted gene expressing from the wrong parental allele—a ghost editing the manuscript without altering the type, a whisper passed down a generational line until it is mistaken for a shout.
Etymology
From epi- + mutational.
adj
- Relating to epimutations
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