Epigenetics - the study of mechanisms that control how genes are switched ‘on’ and ‘off’ without any changes in the DNA - has recently become a popular explanation for complex diseases.

The epigenome of an individual is determined in part by the inherited DNA sequence and in part by the environment, although there is debate about the relative contribution of each of these factors. Some epigenetic changes are stable and last a lifetime, and some may be passed on from one generation to the next, without changing the genes. Epigenetic processes are particularly important in early life when cells are first receiving the instructions that will dictate their future development and specialization. These processes can also be initiated or disrupted by environmental factors, such as diet, stress, aging, and pollutants.

The aim of this Special Issue is to summarize current evidence on the role of epigenetic mechanisms in health and diseases. Research articles as well as reviews are welcome.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Significance and potential applications of epigenetic biomarkers (DNA methylation, histone modification, noncoding RNA) in the clinical practice
• In vitro and in vivo models to investigate epigenetic mechanisms
• In vitro and in vivo research on the effect of different exposures on epigenetic signatures
• Epidemiological studies on the association between epigenetic markers and diseases
• Potential applications of epigenetic signatures as diagnostic and prognostic markers
• Uncovering the relationship between environment, pollutants and epigenetic mechanisms
• Understanding how behaviours (e.g. diet, physical activity, smoke) affect epigenetic signatures in health and diseases
• Studies on the inheritance of epigenetic signatures from mother to child
• Development of innovative methods based on non-invasive biomarkers