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Epigenetics in learning and memory
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<p>While the cellular and molecular mechanisms of <a href="/facts/Learning/lehEKRjC">learning</a> and <a href="/facts/Memory/a1QSEJhj">memory</a> have long been a central focus of <a href="/facts/Neuroscience/o5RV8Cas">neuroscience</a>, it is only in recent years that attention has turned to the <a href="/facts/Epigenetics/UfAAERcn">epigenetic mechanisms</a> behind the dynamic changes in <a href="/facts/Gene_transcription/bDgp9HDN">gene transcription</a> responsible for <a href="/facts/Encoding_(memory)/H08V1MhT">memory formation</a> and maintenance. <a href="/facts/Epigenetic_gene_regulation/UfAAERcn">Epigenetic gene regulation</a> often involves the physical marking (chemical modification) of <a href="/facts/DNA/nB89Iauz">DNA</a> or associated proteins to cause or allow long-lasting changes in gene activity. Epigenetic mechanisms such as <a href="/facts/DNA_methylation/npoRhsnX">DNA methylation</a> and <a href="/facts/Histone/krb5VJfp">histone</a> modifications (<a href="/facts/Methylation/EvDMWVW5">methylation</a>, <a href="/facts/Acetylation/PNMzRM4r">acetylation</a>, and <a href="/facts/Deacetylation/PNMzRM4r">deacetylation</a>) have been shown to play an important role in learning and memory. </p>