Final answer:
The concept that epigenetics is solely determined by genetic factors is false. Epigenetics involves changes that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. These modifications include chemical changes to DNA and histones and occur at the epigenetic, transcriptional, and translational levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Epigenetics is solely determined by genetic factors" is false. Epigenetic regulation involves changes to gene expression that do not alter the nucleotide sequence of the DNA. These changes are through heritable chemical modifications of the DNA and/or chromosomal proteins, including actions like histone acetylation, which leads to the loose packing of nucleosomes and influences gene expression. Epigenetic changes can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as environmental exposures, lifestyle, and even personal experiences like trauma. Therefore, both genetic and non-genetic factors can contribute to epigenetic changes.
Epigenetic control is the first level of control of gene expression. It does not involve the mutation of the DNA sequence but rather includes mechanisms that allow for the DNA to be transcribed, affect the movement of histones to open or close chromosomal regions, and involve modifications that happen at the epigenetic, transcriptional, and translational levels.