Interplay between Metabolism and Epigenetics: A Nuclear Adaptation to Environmental Changes
Jean-Pierre Etchegaray1, Raul Mostoslavsky2
1The Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; The MGH Center for Regenerative Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Molecular Cell
|June 4, 2016
Summary
Cellular identity relies on transcriptional networks regulated by epigenetics and metabolism. Nutritional status and circadian rhythms influence these epigenetic adaptations, impacting health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
- Metabolism
Background:
- Cellular identity is maintained by specific transcriptional networks.
- Epigenetic programs, driven by chromatin-modifying enzymes, regulate these networks.
- Enzyme activity depends on metabolites (e.g., acetyl-CoA, SAM, NAD+) and nutritional status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular pathways and metabolites involved in epigenetic adaptations.
- To explore how histone- and DNA-modifying enzymes respond to environmental cues.
- To understand the interplay between epigenetics, metabolism, and circadian rhythms in health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of molecular pathways.
- Analysis of metabolite roles in epigenetic regulation.
- Examination of environmental influences (nutrition, circadian rhythms).
Main Results:
- Epigenetic modifications are dynamically regulated by cellular metabolism.
- Nutritional status directly impacts the activity of chromatin-modifying enzymes.
- Circadian rhythms provide an additional layer of environmental control over epigenetic dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic adaptations are a crucial interface between cellular metabolism, environmental cues, and transcriptional regulation.
- Dysregulation of these pathways can contribute to disease development.
- Understanding these interconnected systems offers therapeutic potential.
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