What is DNA?
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the genetic code that makes each person different and unique. It is like an instruction manual for how to build proteins. So far, all known self-reproducing cellular organisms have DNA. However, a mutation in the genetic code could result in being susceptible to certain diseases. Around half of the DNA is passed down by the father and the other half by the mother (Newman, 2023).
Is personality decided by DNA?
The two main categories of influence that DNA has on people are inherited characteristics and personality. There are a plethora of distinct personality types, and they are intricate webs. All of these, nevertheless, are connected to variations in brain structure, which explains why each individual has a unique personality. The four groups of individuals with varying priorities showed differences in the sizes of certain brain regions. Naturally, even though it is predetermined from birth, a person’s personality can be altered by persistent cues in one direction or, in extremely rare circumstances, a single significant event (Connor, 2009).
Traits passed down by DNA
While personality is a very important part of who we are as living beings and how we act, there are other traits that are decided by the genetic code.
For instance, research indicates that a person’s IQ is molded by their upbringing to the extent that at least half of it is predetermined from birth (Finnegan, 2016).
DNA also determines other noteworthy characteristics, like eye color—which explains why some people have more blue or green eyes than others—facial features, hereditary illnesses resulting from mutations in the genetic code that are inherited and passed down through the generations, and even how easy or difficult it is for an individual to gain or lose weight (Newman, 2023).
What is epigenetics?
Identical twins have their differences, which makes sense since otherwise each other would be considered a perfect clone rather than an individual. One twin might excel in sports while the other is fragile, or one could be an excellent musician while the other cannot carry out a tune. Even identical twins with almost exactly the same DNA can differ significantly in their attributes. This is all due to epigenetics, the simple blueprint for cells (Tontonoz, 2018).
Simply put, epigenetics is the process by which the body modifies an individual’s thoughts or behaviors in addition to their underlying genetic makeup. This is the reason why individuals evolve over time. The meaning of the term is “above the genes,” although this might vary depending on who you ask. DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin state changes are examples of epigenetic processes that alter the epigenome. These changes might result in mutations or even encourage cancer. Experiences throughout the early years of life are considered to have a significant impact on a person’s likelihood of developing certain diseases years later. However, epigenetics is still a growing topic, which means that some information is still very controversial and is yet to be proven for sure (Totonoz, 2018).
References
Connor, S.,2019. Personality decided at birth, say scientists. [online] NZ Herald. Available at: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/personality-decided-at-birth-say-scientists/XCQYUITCF4FDX5EZ2GROR7Z2YQ/ [Accessed 25 November 2023].
Finnegan, G.,2016. Brain power: determined by nature or nurture? | Research and Innovation. [online] ec.europa.eu. Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/research-and-innovation/en/horizon-magazine/brain-power-determined-nature-or-nurture [Accessed 25 November 2023].
(Newman, T.).,2023. DNA explained: Structure and function. [online] www.medicalnewstoday.com. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319818 [Accessed 25 Nov. 2023].
(Tontonoz, M.).,2018. What Is Epigenetics, and Why Is Everyone Talking about It? | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. [online] www.mskcc.org. Available at: https://www.mskcc.org/news/what-epigenetics-and-why-everyone-talking-about-it [Accessed 25 Nov. 2023].
