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Epigenetic switch helps keep early embryo cells on the right track

A study reveals an epigenetic switch that restricts early embryo cells from differentiating into certain tissue lineages. The research identifies PRC2 as a key regulator of gene expression in embryonic development, allowing for better control of stem cell specialization and blastoid formation.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Researchers find epigenetic changes during pregnancy may contribute to the development of asthma

A study found epigenetic differences in airway cells of patients with asthma who have asthmatic mothers, suggesting impaired immune responses and potential new therapies for this subtype of asthma. The research was conducted in a diverse population and replicated in independent children's cells.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2022

Researchers find epigenetic changes during pregnancy may contribute to the development of asthma

A new study by University of Chicago researchers found epigenetic differences in airway cells of patients with asthma who have asthmatic mothers, contributing to the development of severe asthma. The findings suggest that impaired immune responses may be an underlying cause of lack of therapeutic response to corticosteroids.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022

Stem cell secrets allow researchers to revamp reprogramming

A genome-wide functional screen identified critical regulators of naïve stem cell reprogramming, enabling the creation of high-quality, stable stem cell populations. The study also uncovered epigenetic factors that hinder or help reprogramming, including the essential PRC1.3 complex and inhibitory HDAC2 protein.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2022

Traditional Chinese medicine, Shengmai Yin, improves the effects of radiation therapy, says new study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis

A new study found that traditional Chinese medicine Shengmai Yin increases the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiation, reducing radioresistance. By altering DNA methylation status, SMY enhances the efficacy of radiation therapy and reduces side effects.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2022

MU scientist links epigenetic biomarkers to gastrointestinal issues for kids with autism

A recent study identified specific RNA biomarkers linked to gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism. The findings could lead to the development of personalized treatments to ease the pain of these individuals. The research has implications for precision medicine, enabling healthcare providers to track medication effectiveness...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·TypeCase study·DateFeb 25, 2022

How do the effects of childhood abuse extend into middle age?

Researchers found that women who experienced childhood sexual abuse developed blunted cortisol profiles, associated with health problems like depression and anxiety. Epigenetic age acceleration also contributed to these effects. The study aims to understand resilience to trauma and develop interventions for those affected.

SourcePenn State·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2022

Unmuting the genome

Researchers at TUM and MPIMG decipher the molecular mechanisms responsible for deactivating genes in genomic imprinting. By removing known epigenetic 'off switches', they discovered that DNA methylation and Polycomb enzymes play a crucial role in silencing genes.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022

Adverse complications for covid positive pregnant women and their newborns adds further weight to vaccination calls

A new study found a significant increase in adverse outcomes for COVID-19 positive pregnant women, including gestational diabetes, low white blood cell counts, and heavier bleeding during delivery. Respiratory complications were also witnessed in their babies, highlighting the importance of vaccinating all pregnant women against COVID-19.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·DateOct 10, 2021

Van Andel Institute, Maine Medical Center Research Institute scientists earn $9.6 million Transformative Research Award from National Institutes of Health

Researchers will investigate the genetic and epigenetic factors controlling variation in health, with potential implications for combating cancer, obesity, and other diseases. The team aims to identify new sets of disease-related genes, delineate subtypes of disease, and understand the complex interaction between genetics and epigenetics.

Epigenetics predicts the efficacy of T-lymphocyte treatments in hematological malignancies

Researchers found a genetic regulation profile associated with improved overall survival and reduced disease relapse in patients treated with CAR-T cells. The epigenetic pattern is typical of young T lymphocytes, suggesting they may be ideal for selection and administration.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2021

A genetic brain disease reversed after birth

Researchers at RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research have found that Kleefstra syndrome, a genetic disorder leading to intellectual disability, can be reversed after birth. Postnatal treatment with artificially induced GLP production resulted in improved brain and behavioral symptoms.

SourceRIKEN·JournaliScience·DateSep 20, 2021

Exposure to tobacco smoke in early life is associated with accelerated biological ageing

A new study finds that early-life exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with accelerated biological ageing in children. The analysis of over 1,000 children in six European countries revealed that maternal tobacco smoke during pregnancy and indoor exposure to black carbon are linked to an acceleration in epigenetic ageing.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·DateAug 25, 2021

Castration delays DNA aging

Researchers found that castration of male sheep leads to delayed DNA aging compared to intact males, with epigenetic clocks and DNA methylation patterns differing between the two groups. The study's findings also suggest a link between castration, male hormones, and sex-specific differences in DNA aging.

The architect of genome folding

Researchers discovered HP1a as an epigenetic regulator that establishes the global structure of the genome in early Drosophila embryos. The study used powerful genetics and 3D genome modeling to show that HP1a is required for proper chromatin organization at multiple hierarchical levels during embryonic development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateApr 15, 2021