Bhumi Murki

To what extent should epigenetics be incorporated into a biology curriculum that currently emphasizes the methods of Mendallian Inheritance?

Started May 11, 2026

Abstract or project description

Biology curriculum has historically emphasized Mendelian genetics as the framework for understanding patterns of inheritance. While these principles provide students with a foundation for studying heredity, advances in molecular biology have revealed that genetic outcomes are influenced by complex processes, including epigenetic regulation. These discoveries highlight the need for biology education to better prepare students to think critically about how genes interact with the environment. Through a review of existing global literature, this paper examines the strengths and limitations of Mendelian genetics, the role of epigenetics in gene regulation, and the implications of introducing epigenetics into high school biology. Relying solely on Mendelian principles can create misconceptions that genes directly determine traits. Incorporating epigenetics can provide students with an understanding of modern genetics by connecting gene regulation to real-world biological challenges, allowing them to apply biological concepts to real-world issues. The findings identify potential frameworks for incorporating epigenetics into existing genetics instruction rather than replacing Mendelian genetics. Epigenetics should be incorporated as an extension of Mendelian genetics to create a comprehensive biology curriculum that reflects current scientific understanding and enables all students to better understand the relationships among genes, the environment, and human health in their everyday lives.