Changing Genes: Epigenetics 101 with Pamela

We have all heard the saying 'You are what you eat'. Consume highly processed, sugar and high fat loaded foods, and your risk for heart diseases, and a range of cancers skyrockets. On the other hand, grab a kale salad instead of a mars bar, and your whole body is nourished. 

But what's that go to do with genetics? 

What most people are unaware of is that our daily lifestyle choices actually shape our genetic makeup. Moreover, these changes are passed then on through our genes! All of this is down to epigenetic modifications, where behaviors and environment can cause changes to your DNA structure and how your genes work. Even more, scientific research is now discovering how emotions and even beliefs modify our genes.

So, how did your grandparents shape your DNA? And what can you do to pass on the best genes to your children and grandchildren?

Come and join Pamela for an introduction into this fascinating area of study.

What will we cover?

In this class, we will present evidence-based scientific information on epigenetics and DNA modifications and how we can tailor them through our daily lifestyle choices, such as:

• How diet and exercise changes the structure of DNA,
• How epigenetic DNA modifications are passed on through generations,
• Can certain emotions affect your DNA?
• Information on different daily activities you can do to sharpen the performance of your genes.

Pamela is conducting academic research into epigenetics and how it is understood by the general population. Please let us know if you are willing to take part in a questionnaire before and after Pamela's class to be part of this initiative! All answers will be recorded anonymously. The results of the surveys will be used for educational research purposes only.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair Acessible Venue
• Non Gendered Bathrooms
• Free Tickets for First Nation Attendees

Who will be teaching?

Pamela (she/her) is a PhD trained biomedical engineer who loves food, science and books. At the end of 2017, she decided to expand her career prospects and embarked on a steep learning journey to become a qualified Math and Science secondary teacher, completing a Master of Teaching in Math and Science by the end of 2019.

At Laneway Learning, Pamela teaches a range of science and math classes, including epigenetics, South American drinking tour and the molecular kitchen.  

Important info:

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Photos L-R: Boston Public Library;  Sangharsh Lohakare.

Questions or other ways we can assist with accessibility? Feel free to email Maddy (she/her) at melbourne@lanewaylearning.com.