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Toxicoepigenetics: Core Principles and Applications
Citation:
McCullough, S. AND D. Dolinoy. Toxicoepigenetics: Core Principles and Applications. McCullough, Shaun; Dolinoy, Dana (ed.), Edition 1. ELSEVIER, AMSTERDAM, Holland, 1, (2018).
Impact/Purpose:
The genetic material of every organism exists within the context of regulatory networks that govern gene expression collectively called the epigenome. Epigenetics have taken center stage in the study of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegeneration; however, its integration into the field of toxicology is in its infancy. Increasing the presence of epigenetics in toxicological research (e.g. ToxicoEpigenetics) will allow for a more in-depth understanding of important aspects of toxicology, such as: 1) the mechanisms underlying toxicant-mediated health effects; 2) the role of the environment and lifestyle in modulating the individual susceptibility to these effects; 3) the multi- and trans-generational transmission of these health effects and susceptibilities; and ultimately 4) the integration of epigenetic information into the next risk assessment framework. There is a rapidly growing appetite for the integration of epigenetics into the field of toxicology; however, many toxicologists lack formal training in epigenetics and may be unsure of how it could fit into their research or risk assessment programs. This textbook will provide the fundamental principles and practices critical to understanding the role of the epigenome in regulating gene expression and thus the response of cells, tissues, and individuals to toxicant exposures.
Description:
This book will cover the core aspects of epigenetics, including chromatin biology, DNA methylation, and non-coding RNA, as well as fundamental techniques and considerations for studying each of these mechanisms of epigenetic regulation. It will be designed to serve as an introduction to epigenetics for toxicologists trained and experienced in a wide range of toxicological sub-specialties and want to incorporate epigenetics into their research programs. Further, given the diverse nature of available protocols for epigenetic analysis, this text will also include unified, practical, and easy to follow protocols that will make it a useful resource in both the classroom and the laboratory. Technical language will be appropriate for the graduate student level and above.
