Epigenetics, pregnancy and autoimmune rheumatic diseases
Greta Pacini1, Sabrina Paolino1, Laura Andreoli2
1Research Laboratory and Academic Unit of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy.
Autoimmunity Reviews
|October 29, 2020
Summary
Epigenetics influences autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) and pregnancy. This review explores how epigenetic changes during pregnancy affect immune responses in women with ARDs.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Genetics
Background:
- Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) predominantly affect women of childbearing age.
- Hormonal and immunological shifts during pregnancy interact with ARDs.
- Epigenetics modulates immune function and gender-specific effects in autoimmunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of epigenetics in ARDs pathogenesis.
- To examine epigenetic modifications during physiological and pathological pregnancy.
- To discuss the interplay between ARDs and pregnancy through an epigenetic lens.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epigenetics, ARDs, and pregnancy.
- Analysis of current evidence on pregnancy-related epigenetic modulation in ARDs.
- Presentation of a new European research project.
Main Results:
- Epigenetics is a key factor in ARDs pathogenesis and gender dimorphism.
- Pregnancy involves significant epigenetic modifications influencing immune responses.
- Limited data exists on pregnancy-specific epigenetic changes in ARDs patients.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial in understanding ARDs and their interaction with pregnancy.
- Further research is needed to elucidate pregnancy-related epigenetic modulation in ARDs.
- An upcoming European project will address these knowledge gaps.
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