The same genotype can become different phenotypes, which is the result of external gene regulation. Ding, vice president of Rongxin Clinic, said that genes are the code of life, just like the blueprint for building a house, and the body is built according to the genetic blueprint. But no matter how good the design of the house is, if the building materials are poor or lack of maintenance, it will still be destroyed, and so will the body. The food is building materials, and exercise and rest are maintained. These will modify the appearance of the gene blueprint, that is, the correct diet and lifestyle can make the gene expression better and better through the regulation of external genes. The house is well maintained, comfortable to live in, well cared for and healthy to live in.
What is "epigenetic regulation"? Genes are like a long spiral chain, covered and protected by a kind of protein called histone. Scientists have found that secret switches are installed on gene chains and histones to control gene activities. When the switch is turned on, the gene becomes active and shows its characteristics. The switch of gene chain is methyl, and the switch of histone is acetyl. These two chemical structures regulate gene expression outside the gene. Therefore, the same "genotype" can become different "phenotypes", which is the result of external gene regulation.
The study of identical twins can best prove that the phenotypes of twins with the same genotype are indeed different after the adjustment of exogenous genes caused by different environmental factors. A large-scale study on identical twins in Sweden collected 44,788 pairs of identical twins and investigated their cancer incidence. The conclusion is that environment is more important than genes. This conclusion can sweep away the shadow of the heart for the families of cancer patients who are worried about family inheritance.
Everyone has a unique gene. After detecting the gene, we can find the appropriate food and nutrient elements according to everyone's advantages and disadvantages, and modify them through the regulation of exogenous genes. This science called "nutritional genomics" is developing vigorously.
Ding said that whether people will live a long and healthy life is of course influenced by genetics, and it is equally important to know how to preserve health in daily life. Using proper nutrients to regulate gene expression can make up for congenital deficiency. Correct lifestyle, including diet, exercise and rest, can activate healthy genes and make the body healthier.