Flame retardants are ubiquitous chemicals added to numerous consumer products to prevent the spread of fire. While they are essential in enhancing fire safety, their widespread use has raised concerns about their environmental and health impacts. One such flame retardant, triphenyl phosphate (TPhP), has gained popularity as an alternative to previously restricted compounds. However, recent studies suggest that TPhP may pose risks to both aquatic ecosystems and human health through its potential to disrupt endocrine systems and alter gene expression. In a study investigating the epigenetic eff ..read more

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disorder that impacts millions globally. While the exact cause of the disease is still unknown, a recent study by Northwestern University (NU) has shed light on the potential role of epigenetic modifications in the immune system of Alzheimer’s patients. The study found that Alzheimer’s patients experience epigenetic changes in their blood’s immune system, which could be influenced by environmental factors, past infections, and lifestyle behaviors. These findings could pave the way for the development of new therapeutic targets for modulating the per ..read more

Cleft lip and palate stand out as the most prevalent craniofacial birth anomalies worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 700 newborns. Despite extensive research spanning decades, the precise etiology of most cases remains elusive, as does effective preventive measures. Understanding the causes of this abnormality has mainly focused on genetic factors, revealing numerous risk loci along the DNA, although direct causative variants are rare. Therefore, it is thought that this defect arises from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Yet, the precise environmental triggers and mechanisms r ..read more

In the quest to unravel the mysteries of aging, scientists have long turned to our genetic code for answers. While machine learning models have offered insights into predicting biological age, understanding the causal factors behind aging has yet to be discovered. However, a groundbreaking study has now shed light on the hidden workings of aging by delving deep into the intricate realm of epigenetics. Scientists at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, part of Mass General Brigham, have developed an innovative “epigenetic clock” to help understand on what drives aging. Based on analyzing DNA met ..read more

Diabetes is a widespread health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. The disease is complex and can develop due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Given its increasing prevalence, scientists worldwide are investigating the underlying genetic complexities and epigenetic factors of diabetes in more detail. One question that researchers are interested in is whether epigenetic changes cause type 2 diabetes or if the changes occur only after a person has become ill. A new study by Lund University’s researchers now provides increased support for the idea that epigenetic ..read more

Growing up amid adversity, encompassing elements like poverty, child maltreatment, and community violence, not only poses a significant risk for psychopathology and lifelong health challenges but also has been shown to accelerate the biological or epigenetic aging process in children. However, a new study featuring research conducted in the lab of Professor Justin Parent, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Rhode Island, has introduced a promising prospect. Positive parenting interventions might hold the key to slowing down or even reversing the accelerated biological ag ..read more

Advancements in technology have opened doors for scientists to delve deep into the complex world of genetic control elements, unveiling the intricate mechanisms governing gene activation within our genetic code. Contrary to the simplistic perception of cis-regulatory elements (CREs) as mere genetic on/off switches, emerging evidence underscores their capacity for nuanced behaviors. They’re not just toggles for gene enhancement; they orchestrate complex functions pivotal to sustaining cellular health. New research originating from Japan has uncovered about 11,000 significant genetic switches ..read more

This article was first published by EpigenTek. Since the 1970s when studies on the epigenetics of chromatin first started, histone and DNA marks, especially DNA methylation, have become the most investigated and characterized epigenetic modifications to date [Razin]. DNA methylation has garnered significant attention within the field as a pivotal regulator of gene expression. Its extensive influence on biological processes, ranging from development to disease, has redefined our comprehension of genetic control and prompted innovative approaches for medical interventions. During developme ..read more

Obesity stands as a multifaceted health concern affecting millions worldwide. While diet and lifestyle play pivotal roles, researchers are now looking much deeper to determine if susceptibility to obesity could be identified at a molecular level within human cells. In a recent study led by distinguished biology professor Michael Skinner at Washington State University (WSU), a comprehensive twin study was undertaken to probe the epigenetic factors associated with obesity. Their findings uncovered specific DNA methylation regions (DMRs) intricately connected to metabolic and dietary influences ..read more

Understanding the intricate interplay between genetics and cancer progression has long captivated the scientific community. While genetic mutations have been the main focal point in oncology, recent strides have illuminated the profound influence of epigenetic modifications in the development of cancer. In a recent study published in the journal Nature, Dr. Eduard Porta from the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute and his team have shed light on the pivotal role that epigenetics plays in steering cells on their journey from healthy to metastatic cancer. Unlike genetic mutations, epige ..read more