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Epigenetic Timing Control

Meaning

Epigenetic Timing Control describes the sophisticated regulation of gene expression based on the precise temporal organization of biological processes, particularly those fundamentally governed by the circadian clock. This control involves rhythmic, time-dependent modifications to DNA and its associated histone proteins, such as methylation and acetylation, which effectively switch genes on or off at specific times of the day or life cycle. The mechanism ensures that critical metabolic and repair genes are expressed only when they are physiologically appropriate, thus optimizing cellular efficiency and systemic resilience.