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Updated: Dec 19, 2025

Sample Preparation to Bioinformatics Analysis of DNA Methylation: Association Strategy for Obesity and Related Trait Studies
Published on: May 6, 2022
Sex-specific DNA methylation differences in people exposed to polybrominated biphenyl
Sarah W Curtis1, Sabrina A Gerkowicz2, Dawayland O Cobb2
1Genetics & Molecular Biology Program, Laney Graduate School, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle NE, Ste 4217, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Abstract:
Aim: Michigan residents were exposed to polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) when it was accidentally added to the food supply. Highly exposed individuals report sex-specific health problems, but the underlying biological mechanism behind these different health risks is not known. Materials and methods: DNA methylation in blood from 381 women and 277 men with PBB exposure was analyzed with the MethylationEPIC BeadChip. Results: 675 CpGs were associated with PBBs levels in males, while only 17 CpGs were associated in females (false discovery rate <0.05). No CpGs were associated in both sexes. These CpGs were enriched in different functional regions and transcription factor binding sites in each sex. Conclusion: Exposure to PBBs may have sex-specific effects on the epigenome that may underlie sex-specific adverse health outcomes.
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