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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

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Published on: July 12, 2012
Sexual dimorphism in environmental epigenetic programming.
Anne Gabory1, Linda Attig, Claudine Junien
1Inserm U Genetics and Epigenetics of Metabolic Diseases, Neurosensorial Diseases and Development, Clinique Maurice Lamy, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France.
Environmental factors and sex influence epigenome remodeling, impacting disease susceptibility differently between males and females. Epigenetic programming can even lead to sex-specific transgenerational effects.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics and Environmental Health
- Sex-Based Biology
- Disease Susceptibility
Background:
- Individual phenotype arises from genotype-environment interactions, leading to lifelong epigenome remodeling.
- Many common diseases exhibit sex bias, potentially due to sex chromosomes, sexual development pathways, and sex hormones.
- Sex-specific epigenetic marks may control dimorphic gene expression, influenced by environmental factors in a gender-related manner.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of epigenetic programming.
- To highlight the importance of sex-specific considerations in disease development and environmental exposures.
- To emphasize the need for studying both sexes in research and interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epigenetic programming and its relation to sex and environment.
- Analysis of sex-specific epigenetic marks and their influence on gene expression.
- Examination of environmental factors affecting epigenetic marks across the lifespan.
Main Results:
- Developmental programming and gametogenesis are sensitive periods for sex-specific environmental challenges.
- Unfavorable programming can lead to differential disease susceptibility between sexes.
- Epigenetic programming may be transmitted across generations in a sex-specific manner, causing transgenerational effects (TGEs).
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic programming is a crucial factor in sex-biased disease susceptibility.
- Studying both sexes is essential for accurate epidemiological protocols and dietary interventions.
- Understanding sex-specific epigenetic mechanisms is vital for public health and personalized medicine.
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