Advances in Epigenetics:
From Mechanisms to Medicine

Epigenetic regulation is emerging as a central theme in understanding complex biological processes and disease mechanisms. Epigenetics refers to the study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes are often governed by chemical
modifications, including DNA methylation and histone modification, that influence how genes are turned on or off. Epigenetic mechanisms play a critical role in development, cell differentiation, and responses to environmental signals. They are increasingly recognized as key contributors to diseases such as cancer,
neurological disorders, and developmental defects. In this conference, leading experts will highlight how recent advances in novel sequencing technologies, computational tool development, and emerging conceptual frameworks for studying epigenetics are transforming our understanding of gene regulation, tumor evaluation, and precision medicine. The meeting will also feature a poster session showcasing outstanding research conducted by predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees from the six
inter-institutional training programs administered by the GCC/Keck Center in the greater Houston area.