Ep 3. Episode 3: When Genes Mix With The Wrong Environment

Episode 3 of Predict My Future: The Science Of Us explores the interaction between our environment and genes, and how this interaction can have profound effects on our future. The episode begins by introducing us to the concept of epigenetics, which refers to the study of changes in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence itself.

We are then introduced to several individuals who have been affected by environmental factors, such as pollution, diet, and stress, which have led to changes in their gene expression and ultimately impacted their health and well-being. Through interviews with scientists and medical professionals, we learn about the intricate ways in which our environment can impact our genes, including how it can activate or silence certain genes.

We meet a man who has developed asthma as a result of exposure to air pollution in his childhood, a woman who is at high risk for developing obesity and diabetes due to a genetic mutation that is exacerbated by an unhealthy diet, and a young girl who suffers from anxiety as a result of growing up in a stressful environment. Each of these individuals provides a personal account of how their environment has affected their health and underscores the importance of understanding the interaction between genes and the environment.

The episode then delves into the science behind this interaction, with experts explaining how changes in our environment can alter our gene expression through a process called DNA methylation. We learn that this process involves the addition of a molecule called a methyl group to a DNA molecule, which can prevent certain genes from being activated. This can have significant consequences for our health, as certain genes are responsible for producing proteins that are essential for normal bodily functions.

Throughout the episode, we are also introduced to various experiments and studies that have been conducted in order to better understand the interaction between genes and the environment. These include studies on the effects of diet, exercise, and stress on gene expression, as well as experiments that have explored how certain chemicals, such as pesticides and endocrine disruptors, can impact our genes.

Overall, Episode 3 of Predict My Future: The Science Of Us provides a fascinating glimpse into the complex interplay between our genes and our environment. It underscores the importance of understanding how these factors interact and provides a compelling case for the need to take a more holistic approach to healthcare that takes into account both genetic and environmental factors.