Beyond the use of medicines, individuals may be able to exert direct control over their epigenome simply by modifying their exposure to certain chemicals. For example, bisphenolA (BPA), a compound used to make certain plastics, was shown to decrease the methylation of a specific gene in mice. As a result
A) many people now purchase BPA free water bottles.
B) researchers realized that BPA changes the DNA sequence.
C) researchers realized that individuals have no control over how their genome works.
D) many people now buy BPA containers.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since BPA has been shown to decrease the methylation of a specific gene in mice, many people now avoid BPA exposure by purchasing BPA free water bottles. This is a direct example of individuals modifying their exposure to certain chemicals in order to potentially impact their epigenome. The other choices are incorrect as researchers did not discover that BPA changes the DNA sequence, nor did they suggest that individuals have no control over their genome.

Beyond the Use of Medicines, Individuals May Be Able to Exert