Playful genes

What Do We Know About the Epigenetics of Play Behaviour

Bibliographic Data

ID4485869
AuthorsMarissa Sgro (0000-0002-5816-5495, Monash University), Richelle Mychasiuk (0000-0001-5291-5083, Monash University, corresponding author)
Year2020
Volume9
Issue1
Pages25-38
Publication date2020-01-02
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Play (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2159-4937 • E-ISSN: 2159-4953
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/21594937.2020.1720139
OpenAlexW3005965596
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited77

Play behaviour is a vital activity for healthy development and long-term functioning. However, the genetic and epigenetic regulation of play behaviour is relatively unexplored and there is currently a gap in the literature regarding the exact mechanisms that regulate play behaviour and the social brain in general. Therefore, this review will explore the current literature on play behaviour with respect to its importance from an evolutionary perspective and the regions of the brain that govern this complex behavioural output. We will then explore the epigenetic mechanisms that are involved in social behaviour and play, including the environmental and lifestyle factors that can induce epigenetic changes, which often lead to sex dimorphism of play behaviour. Furthermore, although limited, we will examine current research regarding epigenetic roles of specific genes (i.e. BDNF, IGF1, Mecp2, OXYR, Opa1, Drd2) in play and social behaviour. Finally, we will explore how play behaviour influences epigenetic changes

Biology · DNA methylation · Epigenesis · Epigenetics · Gene · Gene expression · MECP2 · Phenotype · Child Development and Digital Technology · Epigenetics and DNA Methylation · Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior · Neuroscience · Psychology · Genetics

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