Epigenetic Regulation of Biological Rhythms: An Evolutionary Ancient Molecular Timer. Issue 2 (February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stevenson, Tyler J.
• Is Part Of: Trends in genetics. Volume 34:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 90
• Page End: 100
• Publication Date: 2018-02
• Subjects: methylation -- acetylation -- circadian -- infradian; Genetics -- Periodicals; 576.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.11.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0168-9525

Abstract

Abstract : Biological rhythms are pervasive in nature, yet our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern timing is far from complete. The rapidly emerging research focus on epigenetic plasticity has revealed a system that is highly dynamic and reversible. In this Opinion, I propose an epigenetic clock model that outlines how molecular modifications, such as DNA methylation, are integral components for timing endogenous biological rhythms. The hypothesis proposed is that an epigenetic clock serves to maintain the period of molecular rhythms via control over the phase of gene transcription and this timing mechanism resides in all cells, from unicellular to complex organisms. The model also provides a novel framework for the timing of epigenetic modifications during the lifespan and transgenerational inheritance of an organism. Trends: Biological rhythms are present across diverse life forms and occur at genomic, epigenomic, molecular, physiological, neural, and behavioral levels. Specific epigenetic enzymes are regulated by endogenous molecular rhythms and hormonal signals that, in turn, induce oscillatory patterns across multiple timescales. Daily and seasonal rhythms in epigenetic enzymes may have significant consequences for the epigenomic landscape, timing molecular processes, such as gene transcription, and exhibit tissue- and cell-specific modifications. DNA methylation in particular is an evolutionary ancient mechanism that could have short- and long-term impacts on timing biological rhythms; disruptions in epigenetic oscillations have consequences for health and wellness.