Epigenetic
Epigenetic: Something that affects a cell, organ or individual without directly affecting its DNA. An epigenetic change may indirectly influence the expression of the genome. See also: Epigenetics.
From epi- meaning, in this context, after or beside + genetic.
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- Epigenetics
Epigenetics: 1. The study of heritable changes in gene function that occur without a change in the sequence of the DNA. For example: The process of DNA methylation; and The process of chromatin remodeling. 2. The study of certain processes that occur in embryonic development. For example: X inactivation (the inactivation of one X chromosome […]
- Epiglottitis, acute
Epiglottitis, acute: A very rapidly progressive infection causing inflammation of the epiglottis (the flap that covers the trachea) and tissues around the epiglottis that may lead to abrupt blockage of the upper airway and death. The infection is usually caused by bacteria (such as Hemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococci) and is contracted […]
- Epiglottis
Epiglottis: The flap that covers the trachea during swallowing, so that food does not enter the lungs.
- Epilation
Epilation: Removal of body hair, including the hair root, by means of electrical device, tweezers, or wax. Epilation may be performed by a dermatologist, but is more commonly done for cosmetic purposes by a facial technologist or esthetician. After epilation, the skin may be particularly sensitive. Also known as depilation.
- Epilepsy
Epilepsy (seizure disorder): When nerve cells in the brain fire electrical impulses at a rate of up to four times higher than normal, this causes a sort of electrical storm in the brain, known as a seizure. A pattern of repeated seizures is referred to as epilepsy. Known causes include head injuries, brain tumors, lead […]