epigenetic changes

Scientists discovered that gut bacteria may help protect against autism and ADHD. The study found epigenetic changes at birth influence gut microbiome development in the first year of life, with certain combinations linked to early signs of autism and ADHD by age three.

A major mouse study found that some inherited traits are passed down through epigenetic changes that break Mendel’s Laws of genetics. Researchers identified hundreds of unexpected chemical DNA marks and the first known naturally occurring paramutation in a mammal, suggesting environmental influences may play a larger role in inheritance.