Molecular Insights into Transgenerational Non-Genetic Inheritance of Acquired Behaviours
Dublin Core
Title
Molecular Insights into Transgenerational Non-Genetic Inheritance of Acquired Behaviours
Subject
Genetics
Electronic Resource Item Type Metadata
Journal Name
Nature Reviews Genetics
Volume
Vol. 16
Issue
No. 11
Publication Date
2015
Publisher
Nature Publishing Group
Document Type
Journal article
Language
English
Access
Restricted Access
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Abstract
Behavioural traits in mammals are influenced by environmental factors, which can interact with the genome and modulate its activity by complex molecular interplay. Environmental experiences can modify social, emotional and cognitive behaviours during an individual’s lifetime, and result in acquired behavioural traits that can be transmitted to subsequent generations. This Review discusses the concept of, and experimental support for, non-genetic transgenerational inheritance of acquired traits involving the germ line in mammals. Possible mechanisms of induction and maintenance during development and adulthood are considered along with an interpretation of recent findings showing the involvement of epigenetic modifications and non-coding RNAs in male germ cells.
Cataloger
Kristen Walker
Citation
“Molecular Insights into Transgenerational Non-Genetic Inheritance of Acquired Behaviours,” ICMGLT Digital Library, accessed November 3, 2026, https://library.icmglt.org/items/show/912.