Articles tagged with Dna Methylation
Scientists have identified a mechanism that alters neural excitability, a key factor in diseases such as epilepsy, depression, and drug addiction. The discovery provides insight into these conditions and may offer a potential therapeutic target.
UAB researchers have discovered that levodopa induces widespread DNA methylation changes in brain cells that contribute to the development and maintenance of levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Modulating global DNA methylation may be a novel therapeutic target to prevent or reverse this condition.
Research suggests that extra-coding RNAs play a critical role in regulating DNA methylation patterns in the adult brain, particularly in memory formation. By interacting with DNA methyltransferase enzymes, ecRNAs control the addition or removal of methyl groups at precise spots on chromosomal DNA.
A new tool for precision medicine has been developed through epigenetic analysis, which addresses key limitations of genetic testing. This technology provides unprecedented insights into disease mechanisms and can help identify suitable treatments for individual patients.
Researchers found that trauma-related behavioral alterations are reversible in mice and that epigenetic dysregulation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene can be corrected by low-stress environments. This finding has implications for the transmission of characteristics caused by the environment, such as metabolic disorders.
A study of 454 healthy teenagers found that low vitamin D levels correlated with lower DNA methylation rates, increasing the risk of cancer and other diseases. The researchers discovered a dose-response relationship between vitamin D supplementation and increased DNA methylation activity.
New research reveals that stressful events result in DNA de-methylation, leading to the suppression of gene expression and facilitating adaptive behavioral responses. The study also found a link between SAM, a compound produced by the liver, and stress-related responses in the brain.
Researchers at Lund University developed a new method to predict type 2 diabetes risk by detecting epigenetic changes in specific genes through a simple blood test. The study found that higher DNA methylation levels were associated with increased insulin secretion and lower disease risk.
A new method detects multiple diseases via methylation patterns of circulating DNA from dying cells, identifying cell death in specific tissues and offering a minimally-invasive window for monitoring and diagnosis. The approach has vast possibilities for diagnostic medicine and can be adapted to identify cfDNA derived from any cell type.
A study by University of Utah researcher Elisabeth Conradt found that a mother's sensitivity can buffer her infant from the negative impacts of maternal depression. Infants whose mothers were sensitive had lower cortisol levels and less DNA methylation, indicating reduced exposure to maternal stress hormones.
Researchers have discovered a striking genomic signature shared by colon, lung, breast, stomach and endometrial cancers, which may be used to diagnose the disease at early stages. The methylation signature could lead to the development of a non-invasive blood test for cancer detection.
Researchers identified new glioma subtypes by analyzing DNA methylation profiles in 1,122 adult glioma samples. These subtypes can help stratify patients more accurately and improve treatment protocols, with some subgroups displaying similarities to pilocytic astrocytomas and better patient survival.
Researchers have discovered that epigenetic information in the egg plays a crucial role in shaping the development of the placenta during pregnancy. The study found that DNA methylation marks from the egg are essential for correct placental development, particularly in regulating cell adhesion and migration.
A new study from Rockefeller University found no overall differences in DNA methylation between worker and queen ants, challenging the popular explanation for their social roles. The research suggests that methylation may contribute to stable expression of household genes, but further studies are needed to confirm this.
Scientists have developed a new protocol to study DNA methylation and gene expression in single cells, revealing hundreds of individual associations between epigenetic regions and gene expression. This breakthrough provides insights into how pluripotency is maintained and cell differentiation is regulated.
Researchers discovered epigenetic modifications in mouse brains that influence long-term memory, suggesting a potential code for memory content and new therapeutic targets. The study also found these modifications occur in non-neuronal cells, expanding our understanding of neuroplasticity regulation.
The new Illumina MethylationEPIC BeadChip array provides a powerful tool for elucidating the role of the human epigenome in complex diseases. With its significantly increased coverage in gene regulatory regions, it enables DNA methylation analysis at an unprecedented scale.
Researchers have mapped the wheat epigenome, identifying patterns of DNA methylation that regulate gene activity. This discovery could lead to improved crop breeding technologies and a better understanding of genetic variation in wheat.
A team of scientists has identified a key segment of DNA involved in the genomic imprinting process, which regulates gene expression based on an individual's parental origin. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying imprinting disorders and may lead to breakthroughs in understanding genetic diseases.
Researchers developed an epigenetic algorithm that accurately predicts male sexual orientation by analyzing DNA methylation patterns in nine specific regions of the genome. The algorithm achieved a 70% accuracy rate in predicting male sexual orientation, providing new insights into the molecular markers underlying human sexuality.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that maternal lead exposure during pregnancy can cause specific changes in DNA methylation, which can be detected in grandchildren's blood. The study suggests that this epigenetic effect can be transmitted to the next generation.
A new methodology allows for the tracking of DNA methylation patterns in individual cells over time, providing insights into gene expression and cell identity. This breakthrough could aid in cancer treatment and other diseases by identifying specific genes to activate or silence.
Researchers developed an electrochemical platform to measure DNMT1 activity, a protein linked to cancerous transformation, in crude tissue samples. The technique shows promise for early detection of colorectal cancer with high sensitivity and minimal invasion.
Researchers identified a significant association between low DNA methylation scores and radiographic progression in ankylosing spondylitis. Smoking was also found to worsen disease outcomes, with smokers exhibiting more rapid joint damage than non-smokers.
The study provides a starting point to understand the role of methyl groups in influencing gene expression and development. Researchers detected unusual methylation patterns in various tissues, suggesting potential stem cell populations and new avenues for exploration.
Scientists discovered a new DNA modification that regulates gene expression in insects, worms, and green algae. This finding opens a new field of biology and epigenetics research.
Scientists at Helmholtz Munich discovered a novel lncRNA called PARTICLE that regulates cells' response to ionizing radiation by limiting DNA methylation. This finding contradicts the established LNT model and raises questions about the risk of low-dose radiation exposure.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Medical School found that patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) who responded to decitabine treatment had a distinct DNA methylation pattern. This signature can be used to predict patient response to treatment, enabling more effective treatment planning.
Researchers at the University of Virginia have discovered a chemical tag on DNA called DNA methylation associated with differences in brain response to anger and fear. Individuals low in DNA methylation on the oxytocin receptor may better utilize this hormone, leading to improved social behavior.
A study led by Dr. Howard Steiger found that individuals with anorexia nervosa exhibit disorder-relevant alterations in DNA methylation, affecting emotional reactions, physiological functions, and behaviors. Early treatment is crucial to prevent chronicity of the illness.
Researchers identified significant differences in DNA methylation patterns between male and female brains during prenatal development. These epigenetic changes may contribute to the origins of disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
A new study reveals distinct methylation patterns in primary biopsy breast cancer cells, indicating better or worse prognosis. This epigenetic signature can stratify triple-negative breast cancers into two sub-groups, allowing for more precise disease management and potential improved outcomes.
Researchers found that exposure to diesel exhaust for just two hours can alter DNA methylation, changing the expression of approximately 400 genes. This epigenetic shift can have long-term effects on health, even without noticeable symptoms.
Researchers found age-related differences in DNA methylation in 8% of genome sites, but most changes did not affect cellular function. A small subset of methylation changes were associated with altered gene expression and pulse pressure.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that early changes in brain DNA methylation are involved in Alzheimer's disease. The study found correlations between methylation levels and Alzheimer's disease in specific genes, suggesting a potential role for epigenomic modifications in disease susceptibility.
Scientists have discovered that chemical modifications of a gene can contribute to cancer. A new method developed by MIT researchers analyzes these modifications to identify the type of tumor and how it will respond to different drugs. The technique could offer a way to choose the best treatment for individual patients.
Researchers discovered a link between DNA methylation and stress response in the brain, predicting depression and PTSD risk. The study used functional imaging, saliva tests, and blood samples to show that small changes in gene expression can be a stronger predictor than genetic sequence variation.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that small DNA modifications can affect the brain's threat response. The study focused on the serotonin transporter gene and found a strong link between methylation levels and amygdala reactivity, which may contribute to stress-related disorders.
Epiviz is a web-based tool that enables quick visualization and comparison of large genomic information. It seamlessly integrates with Bioconductor analysis software, supporting popular next-generation sequencing techniques.
The black truffle genome contains a high rate of methylation, with transposon elements being more likely to be methylated than genes. Reversible epigenetic processes allow the truffle to adapt to its surroundings, increasing its plasticity and potentially playing a role in controlling traits like aroma and color.
VCU has received a five-year, $3 million grant to investigate how childhood experiences like severe illnesses and neglect affect health outcomes. Researchers will analyze DNA methylation patterns to identify potential biomarkers for early intervention.
A new study in mice shows that epigenetic effects, such as those caused by under-nutrition during pregnancy, can be passed down to offspring but may not persist indefinitely. The study suggests that these 'memories' of environmental impact on health may be limited and potentially reversible.
Researchers have identified a potential biomarker of response to etanercept and adalimumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through DNA methylation analysis. The study found that epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, may provide potential biomarkers of response to anti-TNFs.
A new three-year study led by environmental health scientist Richard Pilsner examines the possible influence of paternal phthalate exposure on sperm quality and embryo development. The research aims to determine if a father's environmental health contributes to reproductive success and how this is transmitted to offspring.
A new study explains how DNA methylation protects duplicate genes, allowing them to evolve into new cellular functions. The research found that young duplicate genes are heavily methylated, shielding them from natural selection.
Researchers from Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute successfully mapped genome methylation in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. The study, published in Genome Research, found that DNA methylation occurs at specific short motifs and is independent of DNMT2 activity.
Researchers identified DNA methylation changes in the HIF3A gene that correlate with BMI and increase the risk of diseases like diabetes. The study suggests a new potential target for treating obesity-related health issues.
A new technique uses DNA methylation signatures to detect immune cell types in blood samples, showing high accuracy compared to existing methods. The approach counts specific chemical alterations that distinguish between cell types, enabling researchers to understand the unique signature of each cell type.
A NIH study reveals that age-related DNA methylation changes may contribute to increased cancer incidence. The researchers identified sites across the human genome that become increasingly methylated with advancing age and are also disproportionately methylated in various human cancers.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that non-CpG methylation occurs later and more dynamically in neurons than previously thought, acting as a system of gene regulation. This finding challenges the long-held idea that once genes are silenced by methylation, they remain so forever.
Researchers discovered methylation sites linked to hypoxia, immune response, and neuronal differentiation in schizophrenia patients, offering potential avenues for distinct subtype identification and personalized treatment responses.
UC Riverside researchers have discovered low levels of DNA methylation in Plasmodium's genome, which may be critical to the survival of the parasite. This finding could lead to the development of a new drug to kill the deadly malaria parasite.
Researchers found a strong association between high 2-HG levels, DNA methylation patterns, and poor survival outcomes in African-American breast cancer patients. The study identified a distinct breast cancer subtype with elevated 2-HG levels that was associated with reduced survival.
Research suggests that epigenetic changes, unrelated to genetic mutations, may contribute to the development of psychiatric disorders. Older fathers' sperm show a decrease in DNA methylation, which affects gene expression in offspring.
Researchers at the Buck Institute identified a suite of epigenetic markers that separated younger from older individuals, with changes associated to genes regulating neuromuscular junction activity. The study provides a method for studying sarcopenia and offers potential targets for intervention.
Researchers identified epigenetic alterations associated with the aging process in disease-free breast tissues, which are further altered in breast tumors. These changes may contribute to the development of breast cancer by increasing cancer risk.
Researchers at Harvard University have found that genes produce extracoding RNA to prevent silencing by DNA methylase 1. This discovery has therapeutic potential as an 'on-off switch' for gene expression.
Researchers found that epigenetic changes in the brain are associated with Alzheimer's disease, offering potential for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation increased with age, correlating with AD pathology.
Researchers will investigate methylation markers in blood to predict chronic depression with a $3 million NIH grant. The findings may lead to more tailored treatment plans and improved management of the condition affecting nearly 15 million American adults.
Researchers found that Siberian hamsters' seasonal timekeeping is influenced by DNA methylation, which regulates reproductive competency. Exposure to short daylight periods decreases DNA methylation in the hypothalamus, stimulating a gene that shuts down reproduction.