Book excerpt: Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Epigenetics, Second Edition is a comprehensive reference on the epigenetic basis of common neuropsychiatric disorders. The volume is organized into chapters covering individual neuropsychiatric disorders, from addiction to anxiety and autism spectrum disorders, and is contributed by leading experts in their respective fields. The epigenetic aspects of each disorder are discussed, in the context of the full range of associated epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA modification, histone post-translational modification, chromatin organization, and non-coding RNA. A particular emphasis is placed on potential epigenetic interventions, when the effects of environmental stimuli on epigenetic states is particularly relevant to disease.This new edition has been fully updated to reflect recent research advances enabled by genomic technologies, as well as therapeutic interventions for previously unmanageable disorders. Several new chapters have been added on disorders or approaches not considered in the earlier edition, including epigenetics and anxiety disorders, epigenetics and neuroimaging in neuropsychiatric disorders, genome-wide approaches to epigenetic research, and the epigenetics of spinal muscular atrophy. By helping to define epigenetics as a key player in neuropsychiatric disorders, this volume empowers new research, clinical translation, and pharmacological advances, and highlights promising directions for ongoing investigation. - Analyzes the effects of environmental stimuli on epigenetic states that correlate with neuropsychiatric disease induction - Reviews the epigenetic basis for common neuropsychiatric disorders, thereby guiding translational therapies for clinicians and mechanistic studies for scientists - Features extensive use of diagrams, illustrations, tables, and graphical abstracts for each section to reinforce understanding - - Includes chapter contributions from leading global experts