Fig. 1

Epigenetic patterns observed across the life span. Epigenetic modifications change over time and increase with age as exposures accumulate. This epigenetic change occurs for both histone modifications (green line) and DNA methylation (orange line). Epigenetic regulation is retained from the parental sperm and egg and undergoes multiple rounds of reprogramming to assume a baseline epigenetic profile in the developing fetus. Some epigenetic marks persist through these reprogramming stages, allowing epigenetic transmission from earlier generation(s). Some epigenetic marks are acquired de novo due to the environment during pregnancy and during organ development in utero. After birth, epigenetic patterns continue to change most rapidly during growth and development in childhood and adolescence. Epigenetic modifications are continually acquired throughout life. The resultant epigenetic state in adulthood is then passed on to the next generation through the germ cells, and the cycle repeats. Figure was designed using biorender.com