Abstract
Meaney argues epigenetics gives a biological language for gene × environment — early experience can regulate gene expression without changing DNA sequence.
Meaney, M. J. (2010). Child Development, 81(1), 41–79. DOI
Key findings
- Beyond sequence — Environment shapes expression, not only inherited code.
- Early experience — Caregiving quality links to methylation patterns in animal models and humans.
- Plasticity window — Critical periods show greater epigenetic sensitivity.
- Not genetic fate — Biology leaves room for context — nature and nurture interact mechanistically.
Limits
Perspective review — strong animal and emerging human epigenetics; causal claims about your biography need primary studies, not this overview alone.