Epigenetic Modifications in Health, Disease, and Precision Therapeutics (From Genome to Epigenome)

Year : 2026 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 01 | Page : 90 97
By

Dharmendra Mishra,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Sharir Rachana, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Institute of National Importance (INI), Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India

Abstract

Introduction: Epigenetic alterations play a crucial role in regulating gene expression in both normal physiological and disease states. These reversible modifications – such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and chromatin remodelling – are increasingly implicated in complex diseases including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Despite advances in standard therapeutic approaches, patient responses remain variable, largely due to genetic heterogeneity and epigenetic dysregulation. This highlights the need for incorporating epigenetic understanding into personalized medicine. Parallel to modern biology, Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes lifestyle, diet, behaviour, and environmental factors – key drivers of epigenetic modulation – suggesting a conceptual convergence between the two systems. Materials and Methods: This review synthesizes contemporary scientific literature on epigenetic mechanisms and their relevance to disease and personalized medicine, alongside classical Ayurveda concepts such as Deha Prakriti (phenotype) and Janma Prakriti (genotype). Conceptual correlations are drawn between known epigenetic regulators and Ayurveda determinants of health, including diet, digestion, stress, lifestyle, and environmental influences. Current developments in epigenetic diagnostics and therapeutics are also examined to assess their potential integration with personalized and traditional medical approaches. Results and Discussion: Evidence indicates that epigenetic variations provide insights into cellular states and developmental histories that cannot be fully explained by genetic information alone. Unlike the static genome, epigenetic patterns are dynamic and reversible, making them attractive therapeutic targets. Although several epigenetic drugs are approved for clinical use, their lack of specificity limits efficacy and safety. Ayurveda’s holistic interventions may influence gene expression indirectly by modulating epigenetic factors, thereby affecting phenotypic outcomes without altering DNA sequence. Understanding epigenetics as a mechanistic bridge offers a scientific basis for Ayurveda principles and supports the integration of traditional knowledge with modern personalized medicine. The development of locus-specific epigenetic modifiers, combined with epigenetic biomarkers, is critical for advancing precision therapies. Conclusion: Epigenetics represents a promising and unifying framework for personalized medicine by linking genetic potential with environmental and lifestyle influences. Ayurveda inherently addresses key epigenetic modulators, suggesting that epigenetic regulation may be a fundamental mechanism underlying its therapeutic effects. Integrating epigenetic diagnostics, targeted therapeutics, and Ayurveda modalities holds significant potential for achieving truly personalized, precise, and holistic healthcare. Further interdisciplinary research is essential to strengthen this correlation and translate it into clinical practice.

Keywords: Ayurveda, DNA methylation, epigenetics, histone modification, personalized medicine, prakriti

[This article belongs to Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy ]

How to cite this article: Dharmendra Mishra. Epigenetic Modifications in Health, Disease, and Precision Therapeutics (From Genome to Epigenome). Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 2026; 15(01):90-97.
How to cite this URL: Dharmendra Mishra. Epigenetic Modifications in Health, Disease, and Precision Therapeutics (From Genome to Epigenome). Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 2026; 15(01):90-97. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/joayush/article=2026/view=238840

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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 01
Received 21/01/2026
Accepted 12/02/2026
Published 14/02/2026
Publication Time 24 Days

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