How can genes for cells change?

In summary: Bibo-Li%20files/Scott%20Kelly%20Telomeres.pdfThis effect stimulates a lot more research:'Upon Scott’s return to Earth, researchers found that his telomeres — the protective caps on the end of DNA strands — were unexpectedly longer than Mark’s telomeres. Scott’s telomeres have since returned to the lengths they were before the ISS mission, but researchers are studying the telomeres of other astronauts to figure how living in space may have caused the caps to grow.'
  • #1
swampwiz
571
83
I was reading about astronaut Scott Kelly's genes having "permanently" changed after a year in 0-G (the key is not that his capsule was in space, but rather that he was at 0-G, but I digress ...) Is it supposed to mean that genes have changed in new cells being born, eventually taking over as the cells with the old genes have died out? And then the genes changed back in the same process?
 
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  • #2
His genes did not change. Instead, it was their expression that changed. Cells contain ways to modify the expression of different genes, which enables them to better respond to changing conditions. NASA found that Scott Kelly had significant changes in gene expression thanks to his stint in space, and that 7% of this altered gene expression still had yet to return to normal.

See here: https://www.theverge.com/2018/3/15/...y-dna-scott-kelly-international-space-station
 
  • #4
Drakkith said:
His genes did not change. Instead, it was their expression that changed. Cells contain ways to modify the expression of different genes, which enables them to better respond to changing conditions. NASA found that Scott Kelly had significant changes in gene expression thanks to his stint in space, and that 7% of this altered gene expression still had yet to return to normal.

See here: https://www.theverge.com/2018/3/15/...y-dna-scott-kelly-international-space-station
Thanks for the link. I hope this effect stimulates a lot more research:

'Upon Scott’s return to Earth, researchers found that his telomeres — the protective caps on the end of DNA strands — were unexpectedly longer than Mark’s telomeres. Scott’s telomeres have since returned to the lengths they were before the ISS mission, but researchers are studying the telomeres of other astronauts to figure how living in space may have caused the caps to grow.'

A colleague of mine studies telomeres:

https://www.csuohio.edu/grhd/faculty/bibo-li
 

1. How do genes for cells change over time?

The process of genetic change in cells is known as mutation. Mutations can occur spontaneously or can be caused by external factors such as exposure to radiation or chemicals. Over time, accumulated mutations can result in changes to the genes of cells.

2. Can genes for cells change in response to the environment?

Yes, genes for cells can change in response to environmental factors. This is known as epigenetics, where external factors can influence how genes are expressed without altering the underlying DNA sequence. This allows cells to adapt to changes in their environment.

3. What are the consequences of genetic changes in cells?

The consequences of genetic changes in cells can vary depending on the type of change and the affected genes. Some changes can be beneficial, allowing cells to better adapt and survive, while others can be harmful and lead to diseases such as cancer.

4. How can scientists study the changes in genes for cells?

Scientists can study the changes in genes for cells through various techniques such as DNA sequencing, gene expression analysis, and genetic engineering. These methods allow researchers to identify and track changes in genes and understand their effects on cells.

5. Is it possible to control or manipulate the changes in genes for cells?

Yes, it is possible to control or manipulate the changes in genes for cells. This can be done through techniques such as gene editing, where specific changes can be made to the DNA sequence of cells, or through the use of drugs that can target and alter gene expression.

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