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A critical view on transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in humans
1Institut für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Essen and Universität Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany. bernhard.horsthemke@uni-due.de.
Nature Communications
|August 1, 2018
Summary
Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, the passing of traits through germline cells, is debated in mammals. Proving it is challenging due to confounding genetic and environmental factors.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics and Developmental Biology
- Mammalian Genetics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance describes trait transmission via germline cells.
- Observed in simpler organisms, its occurrence in mammals remains controversial.
- Confounding factors like genetic, ecological, and cultural inheritance complicate mammalian studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the phenomenon of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
- To highlight the challenges in providing conclusive proof in mammals.
- To examine the complexities introduced by multifactorial inheritance.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on epigenetic inheritance.
- Analysis of experimental and observational study limitations.
- Discussion of confounding variables in mammalian systems.
Main Results:
- Conclusive proof of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals is difficult to obtain.
- Genetic, ecological, and cultural factors significantly confound epigenetic studies.
- Distinguishing epigenetic inheritance from other inheritance modes is a major challenge.
Conclusions:
- The study of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals requires careful consideration of confounding factors.
- Further research is needed to develop robust methodologies for demonstrating epigenetic inheritance in humans.
- The controversial nature of this field necessitates rigorous experimental design and interpretation.
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