Editorial: Legacies of epigenetic perturbations (original) (raw)
Epigenetic modifications can lead to long-lasting impacts influenced by environmental exposures, potentially spanning generations. This editorial discusses ongoing research in the field of epigenetic inheritance, highlighting studies on the effects of agricultural chemicals such as neonicotinoids and heavy metals on animal models. Notable findings include the identification of altered spermatogenesis due to low-dose exposures and the role of tRNA-derived small RNAs in mediating intergenerational effects. The implications of these studies raise awareness of the health risks associated with environmental toxicants and emphasize the need for reconsideration of current drug safety assessment regulations.