Male-line transgenerational responses in humans
1Clinical and Molecular Genetics Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College, London, UK. m.pembrey@bristol.ac.uk
Human Fertility (Cambridge, England)
|December 2, 2010
Summary
Environmental exposures in grandparents can influence grandchild health through epigenetic gametic inheritance. This transgenerational adaptation impacts longevity and body mass index, suggesting a pre-evolved response mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics and developmental biology
- Human genetics and transgenerational studies
Background:
- Genomic imprinting involves epigenetic marks influencing gene expression across generations.
- Epigenetic gametic inheritance is hypothesized to mediate transgenerational adaptation to environmental challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate transgenerational correlations between early-life environmental exposures and health outcomes in subsequent generations.
- To explore potential mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance in human populations.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Childhood (ALSPAC).
- Analyzing correlations between paternal grandparental nutrition and grandchild longevity (including cardiovascular and diabetic deaths).
- Examining associations between paternal smoking onset and grandsons' body mass index.
Main Results:
- Documented transgenerational correlations between paternal grandparental food supply and grandchild longevity.
- Observed associations between early-life paternal smoking and increased body mass index in sons.
- Identified sex-specific transmission patterns and exposure-sensitive periods.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic gametic inheritance may facilitate transgenerational adaptation to environmental factors.
- The findings suggest a pre-evolved transgenerational response mechanism influencing health outcomes.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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