It is increasingly recognized that acquired traits may be transgenerationally transmitted through non-DNA sequence-based elements, with epigenetics as perhaps the most important mechanism. Here we review examples of non-genetic transgenerational inheritance in Drosophila, highlighting transgenerational programming of metabolic status and longevity, one particular histone modification as an evolutionarily conserved underlying mechanism, and important implications of such studies in understanding health and diseases.
Part of the book: Drosophila melanogaster