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Optimized Analysis of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression from Small, Anatomically-defined Areas of the Brain

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Published on: July 12, 2012

DNA methylation, environmental exposures and early embryo development.

Mélanie Breton-Larrivée¹, Elizabeth Elder¹, Serge McGraw^1,2

¹Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine. Montreal, Canada.

Animal Reproduction

|May 22, 2020

Summary

Early embryo development is sensitive to environmental factors that alter DNA methylation. This review explores how maternal exposures and assisted reproduction impact epigenetic reprogramming and offspring health.

Keywords:

DNA methylation developmental programming epigenetics pre-implantation embryos prenatal exposures

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Area of Science:

Developmental Biology
Epigenetics
Reproductive Science

Background:

Pre-implantation development is a critical window for epigenetic reprogramming.
Dynamic DNA methylation changes during this period are essential for normal development.
Environmental exposures can disrupt these epigenetic processes, leading to adverse outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the mechanisms of embryonic epigenetic reprogramming.
To highlight the impact of maternal environmental stressors on DNA methylation during pre-implantation.
To discuss the effects of assisted reproductive technologies on embryonic development and epigenetics.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies on pre-implantation development, epigenetics, and environmental exposures.
Analysis of mechanisms of DNA methylation reprogramming.
Synthesis of evidence on the effects of maternal stressors and ART.

Main Results:

Environmental factors like alcohol, heat stress, and nutrient availability can alter DNA methylation patterns.
Assisted reproductive technologies may also influence epigenetic marks.
Disruptions in DNA methylation during pre-implantation can lead to permanent developmental changes.

Conclusions:

The maternal environment critically influences embryonic epigenetic reprogramming.
Understanding these mechanisms is vital for improving offspring health outcomes.
Further research is needed to fully elucidate the impact of environmental cues and ART on epigenetics.