Feb

6

The Mysterious Epigenome: What Lies Beyond DNA

February 6, 2012 | 3 Comments


I have to confess that science was one of my worst subjects in school. And the last time I took a science course was as an undergrad – let’s just say, a few years ago… So this book (provided by Kregel Publications) is not one I would ordinarily be attracted to. But since one of the key principles of Mighty Oak Ministries is “healing progressively” and since I’m convinced that “His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness” (2 Pet. 1:3), I was intrigued. What has God provided in our genetic code and beyond that might contribute to our ability to heal our bodies, our minds, and our spirits?

The Mysterious Epigenome, written by Thomas E. Woodward and James P. Gills, attempts to provide the layperson with an understanding of current research in genetics, with a particular focus on the epigenome. Don’t know what that is? Neither did I. The authors define the epigenome as

a second biological encyclopedia of information that resides above the primary information stored within our DNA… a complex system in the cell—sophisticated “software” situated beyond DNA—that directs DNA’s functions and is responsible for our embryonic development and the differentiation of a single, fertilized egg cell into more than two hundred cell types in a mature body. This higher control system is also implicated in aging processes, cancer, and many other diseases. It guides the expression of DNA, telling different kinds of cells to use different genes, and to use them in the precise ways that meet the needs of those different cells.

Well, that was clear. Although they call the epigenome software, they also discuss its physical properties, and in fact, offer some informative photographs to illustrate. It appears that there are elements within the cell that were previously considered junk DNA, throwaways from evolution, that we have now discovered have incredible usefulness. These elements form the epigenome – a second level of information – that influences DNA, RNA, and protein production. (I wondered how the epigenome relates to stem cells, but they didn’t answer that question.) The epigenome is changed by our environment and personal habits (smoking, diet, stress, etc.) and these changes can be passed on to our offspring.

In the trauma work I do I have often heard that our DNA is changed by stress and trauma, giving us a scientific explanation of Ex. 20:5. I’ve never been able to find a good scientific explanation of just how this works, although I’ve certainly seen it often enough when dealing with more than one generation. I’ve also experienced and ministered generational healing, where it seems that through repentance, forgiveness, and blessing, there is a physical as well as emotional and spiritual reordering and healing of brokenness. But my experience has all been anecdotal. I keep looking for scientific confirmation.

This book offers some of that explanation, and I’m sure if I were to read it a few more times, I’d come away with a better understanding. It also challenged me to search for validation and clarification of what the authors assert. My linear mind was disappointed that they would start to describe a function or behavior of DNA, the genome, or epigenome, and then suddenly make a sharp right turn and be describing something else. I would have appreciated in-text diagrams and roadmaps showing me where we were in the cell and how it all fit together. I had to go to Wikipedia for that. And I would have appreciated more clarity on the health implications of this knowledge, especially how to impact adults who have already damaged their DNA. In all fairness, I may be asking too much. I got the impression that this is definitely an intermediate report in a field that is changing daily. It is very possible that the answers I want aren’t known yet. But a little more clarity would have been helpful to this non-scientist.

The authors did try to dumb it down for the lay person by taking the reader on an “Incredible Journey,” describing an Epcot-like ride through the cell in a miniaturized capsule. Frankly, that was just a bit too cute for me, and used valuable real estate that I would have preferred in illustrations or more clear explanations.

The authors clearly approach the book from an Intelligent Design (ID) perspective, and while that isn’t their stated purpose in the beginning, it’s clear by the end where they spend several chapters countering the evolutionary evidence. This they do well. But then, I was already convinced.

This book will be useful to two groups in my audience. First, it would be a good book for a small group that is interested in science or for a tough questions group. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter will help the facilitator, although I would want to read more and have a better working knowledge of the subject before attempting to use it in a group. Especially if that group included ardent ID foes. Second, it is a useful resource for those in personal healing prayer ministry. As I have gained a better understanding of our design, I have ideas for ministering healing to those who have been wounded, especially by trauma or lifestyle issues.

I’d love to know what you think of it. Please join the conversation.

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Comments

3 Comments so far

  1. Clint Bolstad on February 29, 2012 10:55 pm

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  2. Grisel Gorrindo on March 1, 2012 1:19 am

    I like this post, enjoyed this one thanks for putting up.

  3. Dwain Lempka on March 4, 2012 6:17 am

    I really like your writing style, superb information, appreciate it for posting : D.

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