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Invited Review: Epigenetics in neurodevelopment
R D Salinas1, D R Connolly2, H Song2,3,4,5,6,7
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology
|February 15, 2020
Summary
Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and RNA modifications, are crucial for neural development and diseases. These processes interact dynamically to control cell fate, with multi-omic approaches offering future insights.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Epigenetics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Neural development relies on precise gene expression control for cell fate decisions.
- Epigenetics, heritable gene expression changes beyond DNA sequence, profoundly influences this process.
- Emerging technologies enable detailed analysis of epigenetic and gene regulation features.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of key epigenetic regulatory modes in neurodevelopment and disease.
- To highlight the interactive nature of these epigenetic mechanisms.
- To discuss future directions utilizing multi-omic and advanced model systems.
Main Methods:
- Review of established and novel epigenetic regulatory mechanisms.
- Discussion of DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNAs, and epitranscriptomics.
- Consideration of multi-omic strategies and human neurodevelopmental models (iPSC, organoids).
Main Results:
- Epigenetic regulation, encompassing DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNAs, and epitranscriptomics, is central to neurodevelopment.
- These epigenetic modes do not function independently but interact dynamically.
- These interactions coordinate complex neurodevelopmental processes.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the interplay of epigenetic mechanisms is vital for comprehending neurodevelopment and associated diseases.
- Multi-omic approaches and advanced human models are essential for future research.
- Investigating these interactions will illuminate human-specific neurodevelopmental features and diseases.
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