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Sperm Epigenome

Meaning

The Sperm Epigenome refers to the complete set of chemical modifications to the DNA and associated proteins within the male gamete that regulate gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. This includes patterns of DNA methylation and histone modifications that are crucial for packaging the paternal genome and establishing the developmental program of the resulting embryo. The integrity of the sperm epigenome is a critical determinant of male fertility and plays a role in transmitting environmentally acquired traits to the next generation.