Epigenetics of pregnancy: looking beyond the DNA code.
Daniela Zuccarello1, Ugo Sorrentino2, Valeria Brasson2
1Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy. daniela.zuccarello@unipd.it.
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
|March 18, 2022
Summary
Epigenetics influences gene expression during pregnancy, impacting fetal development and adult health. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing pregnancy and understanding developmental disorders.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Developmental Biology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Epigenetics regulates gene expression without altering DNA sequence.
- Evidence suggests epigenetics is vital for pregnancy initiation and fetal development, with lifelong implications.
- Dynamic epigenetic mechanisms respond to maternal-fetal and environmental cues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on epigenetics in pregnancy.
- To explore established and novel epigenetic mechanisms, including ncRNAs.
- To examine environmental influences on fetal brain development via epigenetics.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature.
- Synthesis of information on epigenetic regulation during gestation.
- Focus on environmental factors and their epigenetic impact.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic modifications are influenced by maternal nutrition, stress, microbiome, and teratogens.
- These modifications affect embryo-fetal development and fetal brain development.
- Environmental factors can induce epigenetic changes with lasting effects.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetics plays a critical role throughout pregnancy and development.
- Further research is needed to fully understand these complex interactions.
- Improved knowledge can enhance pregnancy management, assisted reproduction, and understanding of developmental disorders.
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