Explore the fascinating world of epigenetics in this 50-minute lecture by Dr. Karissa Sanbonmatsu from the Santa Fe Institute. Delve into the complex interplay between DNA, environment, and human behavior, uncovering how epigenetic mechanisms influence traits beyond simple nature vs. nurture explanations. Learn about the role of histone proteins in DNA packaging and programming, and discover how stress responses can alter genetic expression across generations. Examine groundbreaking research on maternal behavior in rats and its lasting impact on offspring DNA. Investigate the potential applications of epigenetics in understanding and treating conditions like autism, addiction, depression, and Alzheimer's disease. Gain insights into the cutting-edge field of long non-coding RNAs and their significance in guiding epigenetic programmers to specific DNA locations. Through engaging metaphors and real-world examples, grasp the fundamentals of this revolutionary science that may hold the key to comprehending complex human experiences, including love. Read more