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Epigenetic Reprogramming

Meaning

Epigenetic reprogramming is the process of resetting or dramatically altering the established epigenetic marks—such as DNA methylation patterns and histone modifications—in a cell. This profound biological event essentially wipes the slate clean, erasing the cellular memory of a specialized cell type to allow it to adopt a new identity or revert to a pluripotent state. In a clinical context, it is a key focus in regenerative medicine, aiming to reverse cellular aging or correct disease-associated gene expression patterns. This complex process is naturally observed during early embryonic development and in the formation of germ cells.