The role of DNA methylation in the association between childhood adversity and cardiometabolic disease. (15th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hao, Guang; Youssef, Nagy A.; Davis, Catherine L.; Su, Shaoyong
• Is Part Of: International journal of cardiology. Volume 255(2018)
• Page Start: 168
• Page End: 174
• Publication Date: 2018-03-15
• Subjects: DNA methylation -- Childhood adversity -- Cardiometabolic disease; Cardiology -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.12
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.12.063
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-5273

Abstract

Abstract: Growing evidence suggests that adverse environmental stimuli, especially during sensitive periods in early life, may lead to cardiometabolic disease in later life. However, the underlying biological mechanisms remain a mystery. Recent studies inferred that epigenetic modifications are likely involved. We review recent studies, primarily focused on the findings from human studies, to indicate the role of DNA methylation in the associations between childhood adversity and cardiometabolic disease in adulthood. In particular, we focused on DNA methylation modifications in genes regulating the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis as well as the immune system. Highlights: DNA methylation involved in the HPA axis and immune system caused by childhood adversity was reviewed. The associations of those genes with cardiometabolic disease were explored. This narrative system review gives comprehensive view of childhood adversity, DNA methylation, and cardiometabolic disease.