Section outline

  • Lecture:  Epigenetics

    Studies investigating relationship of genetic ancestry with race/ethnicity and implications for health disparities.

    Faculty:  Christine Dehlendorf

    Location:      MIssion Hall, Conference Room 2700

    • Session Audio/Video Recording (Access restricted to registered students):

    • Required Reading:

    • Thayer Kuzawa 2011 Epigenetics File
      Not available unless: Your ID number contains 02
    • Kuzawa et al-2009-American Journal of Human Biology (1) File
      Not available unless: Your ID number contains 02
    • parets epigenetics File
      Not available unless: Your ID number contains 02

    • Optional Reading:

    • critphilrace.1.2.0190 File
      Not available unless: Your ID number contains 02
    • Gravlee-2009-American Journal of Physical Anthropology File
      Not available unless: Your ID number contains 02
    • wallack epigenetics File
      Not available unless: Your ID number contains 02

    • Resources:

                 WebEx Login information

                 https://webmeeting.ucsf.edu

                 Meeting Number: 991 016 883

                 Audio Connection: +1 415-514-1000 (Toll)

    • Assignment: Below are discussion questions we will consider in class, that you should be thinking about as you do the reading. If you will not attend class, please submit written responses to each question of approximately one half to one page per question (email to christine.dehlendorf@ucsf.edu).

      1. According to epigenetics, what are some mechanisms through which aspects of social status affect biology?
      2. How do these epigenetic mechanisms further entrench health disparities?
      3. What would those studying epigenetics say about whether it’s genetic ancestry or social status that explains why African Americans have disproportionately higher rates of many illnesses than their White counterparts?
      4. Describe the intergenerational nature of health disparities and the role of epigenetic mechanisms.