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Updated: May 17, 2026

Sample Preparation to Bioinformatics Analysis of DNA Methylation: Association Strategy for Obesity and Related Trait Studies
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Sample Preparation to Bioinformatics Analysis of DNA Methylation: Association Strategy for Obesity and Related Trait Studies

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Leptin-specific epigenetic modulation of preterm cord blood serves as a candidate biomarker for obesity

Navya Sree Boga1, Amit K Banerjee1, Saikanth Varma1

  • 1National Institute of Nutrition, Indian Council of Medical Research, Hyderabad, India.

Pediatric Research
|May 15, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic changes in the LEP gene and increased IL6 expression in preterm neonates may promote inflammation and increase later obesity risk. This study identifies early biomarkers for predicting obesity in preterm infants.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Epigenetics
  • Neonatal Research

Background:

  • Leptin regulates body weight and adiposity.
  • Preterm neonates experience rapid growth, potentially increasing future obesity risk.
  • The epigenetic role of leptin in preterm infant obesity risk is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the epigenetic regulation of the leptin (LEP) gene in preterm neonates.
  • To explore the association between LEP methylation, leptin levels, and inflammatory markers.
  • To identify potential early biomarkers for obesity risk in preterm infants.

Main Methods:

  • Measured global and LEP promoter methylation in cord blood.
  • Assessed levels of leptin and IGF1.
  • Quantified the expression of LEP, LEPR, IL6, and TNFα genes in cord blood from preterm and term neonates.

Main Results:

  • Preterm neonates showed decreased global and LEP methylation with increased leptin, LEP, LEPR, IL6, and TNFα expression.
  • Cord blood leptin levels positively correlated with birth weight in preterm infants.
  • LEP methylation was inversely associated with IGF1, while IL6 expression correlated with leptin and LEP expression in preterm cord blood.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic dysregulation of the LEP gene and elevated IL6/TNFα expression contribute to a pro-inflammatory state in preterm neonates.
  • The interplay between LEP methylation and IL6 may promote inflammation, increasing obesity risk.
  • This study highlights potential early-life biomarkers for predicting obesity and metabolic disorders in preterm infants.
Abstract

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