Epigenome Editing

Peter J. Hamilton, Carissa J. Lim, Eric J. Nestler, Elizabeth A. Heller

Studies of the mammalian nervous system have revealed widespread epigenetic regulation underlying gene expression intrinsic to basic neurobiological function as well as neurological disease. Over the past decade, a critical role has emerged for the neural regulation of chromatin-modifying enzymes during both development and adulthood, and in response to external stimuli. These biochemical data are complemented by numerous next generation sequencing (NGS) studies that quantify the extent of chromatin and DNA modifications in neurons. Neuroepigenetic editing tools can be applied to distinguish between the mere presence and functional relevance of such modifications to neural transcription and animal behavior. This review discusses current advances in neuroepigenetic editing, highlighting methodological considerations pertinent to neuroscience, such as delivery methods and the spatiotemporal specificity of editing. Although neuroepigenetic editing is a nascent field, the studies presented in this review demonstrate the enormous potential of this approach for basic neurobiological research and therapeutic application.