Maternal DNA Methylation During Pregnancy: a Review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Epigenetics
• Maternal-fetal medicine

Background:

• Pregnancy is influenced by environmental, behavioral, and hereditary factors.
• Epigenetic modifications, specifically DNA methylation (DNAm), are increasingly recognized for their role in maternal and fetal health.
• Pregnancy risk factors can alter maternal DNAm, potentially leading to adverse outcomes for both mother and neonate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in understanding maternal DNA methylation changes during pregnancy.
• To explore the association between DNAm alterations and pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, anemia, preterm birth, and preeclampsia.
• To identify gaps and limitations in current research to guide future studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on maternal DNA methylation during pregnancy.
• Analysis of the role of DNAm alterations in gene expression modulation.
• Discussion of associations between DNAm changes and specific pregnancy complications and outcomes.

Main Results:

• DNA methylation alterations in promoter and enhancer regions impact gene expression.
• Maternal DNAm changes are linked to gestational diabetes, anemia, preterm birth, and preeclampsia.
• Understanding these epigenetic modifications is crucial for predicting and managing pregnancy complications.

Conclusions:

• Further research into maternal DNA methylation is essential for improving understanding of pregnancy.
• Addressing identified research gaps can lead to healthier pregnancies and reduced public health burdens.
• Epigenetic insights hold promise for mitigating adverse pregnancy-related clinical conditions.