Epigenetic modifications in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia: a review

Lichuan Wang1, Jun Xiao1, Bohan Zhang1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Sheng Jing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.

Pediatric Research
|April 3, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation and histone changes are key in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) development. Mesenchymal stem cells offer potential new therapies by modulating non-coding RNA for BPD treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Genetics
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains a significant threat to premature infants despite advances in perinatal care.
  • Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA regulation, play a crucial role in BPD pathogenesis.
  • Gene-environment interactions are central to the development of BPD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the complex role of epigenetic modifications in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
  • To explore the potential of novel therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic pathways in BPD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent discoveries linking epigenetic variations to BPD.
  • Analysis of molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying epigenetic changes in BPD.
  • Evaluation of mesenchymal stem cells and exosomes as potential therapeutic agents.

Main Results:

  • Methylation variations across biological pathways are associated with BPD.
  • Histone modifications show potential for therapeutic intervention due to their reversibility.
  • Mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes demonstrate promise in modulating non-coding RNA for BPD treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic modifications are complex and universal in BPD occurrence and development.
  • Further biochemical investigation is needed to understand the diverse epigenetic changes.
  • Exosomes and extracellular vesicles offer innovative approaches for precise epigenetic regulation in BPD therapy.

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