Epigenetics has emerged as a central theme in the study of changes in gene activity that are not due to DNA sequence. Epigenetic approaches help us understand how patterns of gene expression are inherited from one cell to its descendants, how gene expression changes during the differentiation of one cell type into another and how environmental factors can reprogram gene expression. The symposium is aimed at addressing these issues and taking stock of the current state of this fast evolving field. Topics to be covered in the symposium include: Epigenetics (-omics) in Development, Nuclear Architecture, Histone Modifications, DNA Methylation, Non-coding RNAs, & Cutting Edge Technologies.

Recent advances in high throughput techniques allow us to address epigenetic studies at the genome-wide scale. There are far-reaching implications of epigenetic research for agriculture and for human biology and diseases, including our understanding of stem cells, cancer and ageing. In view of these recent developments in genome research and epigenetics, we have arranged this hands-on training course for those who are already working or who wish to initiate work in this field. The course is limited to 15 participants. Young investigators from academic institutions, medical and industrial R & D organizations are encouraged to apply.