Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2025
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Sample Preparation to Bioinformatics Analysis of DNA Methylation: Association Strategy for Obesity and Related Trait Studies
Published on: May 6, 2022
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When Genes Wear Marks: Epigenomic Modulation in the Development and Progression of Obesity
Alexandra F Nikolaeva1, Marina V Nemtsova2, Anna V Pustovalova1
1Research Centre for Medical Genetics, 115522 Moscow, Russia.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 28, 2025
Summary
Epigenetic alterations in obesity, such as DNA methylation changes, are reversible and offer new targets for diagnosis and treatment. This review analyzes tissue-specific epigenetic modifications for potential therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Genetics and Genomics
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Obesity is a global health issue driven by genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors.
- Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and microRNA dysregulation, are increasingly recognized in obesity pathogenesis.
- These epigenetic changes are potentially reversible and modifiable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of tissue-specific epigenetic alterations in obesity.
- To explore the role of epigenetics in the development and progression of obesity.
- To identify potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on epigenetic modifications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating epigenetic alterations in obesity.
- Analysis of tissue-specific epigenetic changes in adipocytes, hepatocytes, and peripheral blood cells.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on DNA methylation, microRNA dysregulation, and chromatin remodeling in obesity.
Main Results:
- Identified specific epigenetic alterations in key metabolic tissues and peripheral blood.
- Highlighted the reversibility of epigenetic modifications and their responsiveness to interventions.
- Demonstrated the link between epigenetic dysregulation and pathological adipose tissue accumulation.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications play a critical role in obesity pathogenesis.
- Tissue-specific epigenetic alterations present opportunities for novel diagnostic biomarkers.
- Targeted epigenetic therapies offer promising strategies for obesity management.
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