Can acquired traits be inherited?

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Can acquired traits be inherited? Rate Topic:

#21 17 January 2012 - 01:59 PM Santalum

Baryon

rktpro, on 28 December 2011 - 01:14 AM, said:

My book provides a little knowledge about this. It says acquired traits can't be inherited. But the theory of evolution is based on it. Isn't it. Haven't homologous organs arise due to change in environment and other factors. I mean to say the once a trait is acquired, it may be inherited in the further generations.

The is a whole new branch of genetics dedicated to this called epigenetics.

Various chemicals proteins can bind to the initiator, promoter and enhancer regions of a gene and thus alter how those genes are expressed.

This is believed to be the underlying cause of some human diseases, including some cancers.

So it is quite possible that a smoker, for example, can pass on their increased risk of lung cancer to their children.

Because your DNA, complete with all the attached chemicals and proteins can be passed on to your children.

This post has been edited by Santalum: 17 January 2012 - 02:01 PM