Epigenetics, and human biology and health responses to modernization in the Samoan archipelago.

Epigenetic mechanisms offer explanations for how environmental exposures at critical life periods may affect human biological and disease phenotypes. Incorporation of epigenetic approaches into research on health consequences of societal transitions may increase understanding of the complex biobehavioral factors influencing changing populations. Description of present and planned genetic epidemiology research, including epigenetic studies, among Samoans experiencing economic modernization and globalization offer examples for progress in knowledge of population health transitions.