Question

In some diseases, alteration to epigenetic modifications turns off genes that are normally expressed. Hypothetically, how could you reverse this process to turn these genes back on?

a) Inhibit enzymes responsible for DNA methylation.
b) Stimulate histone acetylation.
c) Increase the activity of histone deacetylases.
d) Promote DNA methyltransferase activity.

Answer 1

To reverse the process of turning off genes due to alteration in epigenetic modifications, we can inhibit enzymes responsible for DNA methylation, stimulate histone acetylation, and increase the activity of histone deacetylases.

Step-by-step explanation:

To reverse the process of turning off genes that are normally expressed due to alteration in epigenetic modifications, we can take the following steps:

1. Inhibit enzymes responsible for DNA methylation: In some diseases, DNA methylation can lead to gene silencing. By inhibiting the enzymes responsible for DNA methylation, we can prevent genes from being turned off.
2. Stimulate histone acetylation: Histone acetylation is associated with gene expression. By stimulating the acetylation of histone proteins, we can promote the opening of chromatin and activate gene expression.
3. Increase the activity of histone deacetylases: Histone deacetylases remove acetyl groups from histone proteins, leading to gene silencing. By increasing their activity, we can reverse this process and turn genes back on.