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Published on: June 21, 2018
Improving Phenotypic Prediction by Combining Genetic and Epigenetic Associations
Sonia Shah1, Marc J Bonder2, Riccardo E Marioni3
1Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia; University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
DNA methylation profiles explain body mass index (BMI) variation, independent of genetics. Combining genetic and epigenetic data improves BMI prediction, suggesting environmental influences on complex traits.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics
- Human Genetics
- Complex Trait Genetics
Background:
- Inter-individual variation in complex traits like body mass index (BMI) and height is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
- DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism, is a potential mediator of environmental effects on phenotype.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if DNA-methylation profiles explain variation in BMI and height.
- To determine if DNA-methylation profiles predict BMI and height beyond genetic factors.
Main Methods:
- Genetic predictors were derived from large genome-wide association studies for BMI and height.
- Methylation predictors were estimated in discovery samples and validated in external cohorts.
- Predictive models combined genetic and methylation data to assess their additive effects on BMI variation.
Main Results:
- DNA methylation profiles explained up to 4.9% of BMI variation in adult cohorts, but not in adolescents.
- Methylation profiles predicted BMI independently of genetic profiles, with combined models explaining more variance (up to 14%).
- Methylation profiles accounted for minimal height variation, consistent with a primarily genetic basis.
Conclusions:
- DNA methylation profiles capture environmental influences on BMI, complementing genetic contributions.
- Combining genetic and epigenetic information offers enhanced utility for predicting complex traits like BMI.
- Epigenetic modifications, specifically DNA methylation, play a role in the phenotypic expression of BMI.
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