Articles tagged with Epigenetics
A McGill University team has identified a mechanism by which environmental factors influence the expression of genes controlling complex traits. By manipulating DNA methylation levels, researchers were able to create variation in worker ant sizes, shedding light on the interplay between genetics and environment in shaping these traits.
A team of researchers identified a key epigenetic factor EZH2 that plays a central role in controlling tumor growth and metastasis in melanoma. The study found that suppressing EZH2 activity can prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells, offering new hope for cancer treatment.
A novel analytical method enables characterization of epigenetic tags, revealing that the system adapts to the loss of single epigenetic writer and eraser enzymes. The study also finds that biological systems can compensate for the loss of individual functional components by attaching novel acetylation tags at nearby sites.
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 have developed a novel treatment approach for persistent viral infections like herpes by blocking the activity of host cell protein LSD1, reducing HSV infection, shedding, and recurrence. This epigenetic therapy shows promise as an antiviral strategy to control shedding and reactivation of latent virus.
The Van Andel Research Institute-funded epigenetics dream team will focus on epigenetic mechanisms in cells to control gene expression. The team will move forward with more extensive clinical trials in other cancer types to improve upon the progress already made.
Roberto Bonasio, PhD, receives NIH New Innovator Award to study epigenetic memory in ants and its implications for biological processes. The award supports his research on gene expression controlled by epigenetic pathways that alter chromosome structure.
Researchers used an epigenetic clock to measure the biological age of liver tissues in obese subjects, finding a significant acceleration of liver aging. The study suggests that obesity may contribute to the premature development of age-related diseases such as liver cancer and insulin resistance.
Researchers at MU School of Medicine identified epigenetic protein changes caused by binge drinking, which can amplify liver damage and lead to chronic liver failure. The study suggests that excessive alcohol consumption with a binge drinking pattern is a major public health concern globally.
A new study has found a wide range of epigenetic changes in children with Crohn's disease, which may be related to key environmental exposures. The research suggests that these changes could have early implications for clinical management of the disease.
Researchers found that infants exposed to opioids in utero had more severe symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome, with higher DNA methylation levels. This study suggests a link between early exposure and lasting epigenetic changes, potentially affecting future sensitivity to addictive substances.
Scientists have identified key DNA sequences and regulatory proteins controlling blood stem cell fate, revealing a more dynamic process than previously thought. The discovery has implications for developing diagnostic tools, personalized medicine, and regenerative therapies.
Black truffles use complex genetic makeup and DNA methylation to regulate jumping genes, adapting to changes in their surroundings. This unique process sheds light on how fungi adapt to environmental changes without an active spore dispersal system.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine created a mouse model showing that epigenetic alterations alone can cause cancer. DNA methylation changes led to a higher incidence of spontaneous cancers and reduced survival in the mice.
Researchers have found that disturbed blood flow leads to epigenetic changes in genes lining blood vessels, contributing to atherosclerosis. The study suggests that good blood flow patterns can persist over time due to these lasting changes.
A study published by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that DNA modifications in the blood of stressed mice correlate with changes in brain tissue, providing a valid comparison between the two. The research linked epigenetic changes to altered gene function, shedding light on the relationship between stress and psychiatric diseases.
A new discovery identifies a key protein called PCAF that promotes nerve growth in the central nervous system, leading to increased nerve fibers regrowing. The study suggests that PCAF may be used to trigger nerve regeneration and potentially lead to recovery from spinal cord injury or brain trauma.
A new theory proposes that epigenetic modification plays a key role in the development of endometriosis, a chronic disease affecting 1 in 10 women. The research suggests that alterations in the epigenetic landscape, rather than genetic mutations, contribute to the disease's progression.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide are investigating epigenetics as a tool for understanding oral health. They aim to develop personalized treatments by analyzing an individual's epigenetic profile and environment.
Researchers have discovered a key protein, AP2-G, essential for the development of male and female sexual forms of the malaria parasite. The protein triggers the production of gametocytes, which are infectious to mosquitos, offering clues for identifying transmission mechanisms.
Scientists have identified an epigenetic lesion in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's patients, which regulates tau protein and may contribute to disease progression. This discovery provides a potential new target for future therapies, offering hope for improved treatment options.
Researchers found a correlation between DNA methylation levels and breast cancer risk in high-risk families. High levels of DNA methylation were associated with increased breast cancer clustering within families.
Researchers have determined the molecular structure of a Tet family member from Naegleria gruberi, providing insights into its role in regulating gene expression and potential therapeutic targets for cancer. The study sheds light on how Tet enzymes interact with DNA, enabling scientists to design drugs that manipulate them.
A study at Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified genetic mutations and molecular alterations linked to higher head and neck cancer death rates in African-Americans, revealing potential targets for improved risk assessment, early detection, and targeted therapy.
A $225,000 grant will help map the landscape of epigenetic changes associated with chemotherapy, a new area in cancer research. The collaboration aims to identify novel targets for more effective cancer treatment.
Researchers have identified distinctive epigenetic modifications associated with Parkinson's disease that can be easily analyzed in blood samples. These changes replicate the epigenetic status of brain tissue cells, potentially simplifying early diagnosis of the disease.
Research suggests that fetal stress can disrupt genetic imprinting patterns, leading to chronic disease later in life. The study found high rates of IGF2 gene expression from both alleles in cord blood, associated with increased disease susceptibility.
A study published in Epigenetics suggests that a high-folate diet during pregnancy can prevent the development of an obesogenic phenotype in Wistar rat offspring. The diet has epigenetic effects on hypothalamic mechanisms regulating food intake, leading to reduced obesity.
Researchers found a potential link between homocysteine levels and schizophrenia risk through epigenetic mechanisms. Elevated plasma homocysteine may contribute to gene expression changes that increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Obese mothers may program their children to develop metabolic problems, but a healthy diet can mitigate this risk. The study found that offspring of obese mothers were more likely to be heavier and develop type 2 diabetes, but a low-fat diet could protect them from overt metabolic disease.
A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that epigenetic changes, such as cytosine methylation, are unique to each child with ALL and may be as important as genetic alterations in causing the disease. The research suggests that epigenetic targeted therapies could be developed for patients with ALL.
Researchers found significant epigenetic changes in DNA methylation patterns related to immune function in people with and without schizophrenia. These changes were found to protect against delusion and hallucination symptoms in schizophrenia patients.
Hopkins researchers identify two genes, TTC9B and HP1BP3, that can predict postpartum depression with 85 percent certainty in pregnant women. The study's findings could lead to early intervention and treatment options for the condition.
Researchers have identified a new mechanism governing critical processes in sexual reproduction during meiosis. The discovery reveals that a step-2 enzyme is modified by SUMO proteins, altering its function and working together with an unaltered enzyme to form SUMO chains.
Researchers at the Lactation Biology Symposium discovered that drinking milk at an early age can change how certain genes are expressed. This epigenetic effect can have long-term implications for behavior and cell development in offspring.
Mary Gehring's lab uses Arabidopsis as a model for human embryonic development to study gene expression in seeds. Her findings could lead to new insights into diseases caused by chromosomal modifications.
A UK study found that epigenetic changes play a key role in the development of chemotherapy resistance in bladder cancer. The researchers identified DNA hypermethylation as a potential biomarker to predict response to treatment, which could increase pathological complete response rates and spare nonresponders from adverse events.
A recent study published in Developmental Cell identifies piRNAs as the primary guides for epigenetic factors, controlling gene expression patterns in Drosophila. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for understanding cancer development and may lead to new therapeutic opportunities.
Researchers at OHSU found that epigenetic control, specifically DNA methylation and histone changes, play a crucial role in regulating puberty. By delaying puberty in female rats using targeted gene therapy, the study provides new insights into the complex protein/gene interactions involved.
Researchers found a significant link between herbivore activity, phenotypic plasticity, and epigenetic changes in European holly. The study suggests that plants can quickly respond to environmental changes through epigenetic modifications, making them more resilient.
Researchers from the University of North Carolina School have established a connection between histone H3 lysine 9 methylation and DNA methylation, implicating protein UHRF1 in their maintenance. This finding may provide clues to the underlying causes of disease and cancer.
A WSU study found that dioxin exposure to pregnant rats resulted in reproductive problems and disease in subsequent generations, including prostate disease and ovarian disease. The effects can be passed down to great-grandchildren, highlighting the potential long-term impact of environmental toxins on health.
Researchers at CAMH have identified 5-hmC, an epigenetic modification of DNA, as playing a key role in the brain's plasticity. The study found that 5-hmC is highly enriched in genes related to synapses, suggesting its involvement in learning and memory.
A new study suggests that choline supplementation during pregnancy can alter epigenetic expression of genes involved in cortisol production, leading to lower cortisol levels in babies. This can potentially reduce the risk of stress-related diseases throughout a child's life.
Researchers found that people with osteoarthritis have a signature epigenetic change responsible for increasing the levels of the destructive MMP13 enzyme. This discovery provides hope for targeted drug development to prevent disease progression and improve quality of life for arthritis sufferers.
Research found epigenetic changes, specifically DNA methylation, alter genes contributing to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) inflammation and joint damage. RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes display a unique DNA methylome signature compared to normal FLS.
The DFG is establishing 20 new Collaborative Research Centres to tackle ambitious, long-term projects. The centres aim to improve our understanding of stress responses, develop new therapies for multiple sclerosis, and increase efficiency in gas turbines.
A team of researchers at King's College London has identified a group of 'ageing' genes that are switched on and off by natural mechanisms called epigenetic factors. These epigenetic processes can be caused by external factors such as diet, lifestyle and environment, and may be initiated from an early age.
Scientists are developing new medicines based on epigenetics, a quiet revolution in biology and chemistry that influences how genes work in health and disease. Four drugs approved for blood cancer have limitations due to lack of selectivity.
Researchers found that epigenetic mechanisms, such as reduced DNA methylation, contribute to high blood pressure and increased susceptibility to forming blood clots in pregnant women with preeclampsia. Inhibition of thromboxane synthase or dietary supplementation with folate may provide potential treatments for this condition.
A new study from Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine has developed a computer program called EpiPredictor to rapidly identify genes targeted by epigenetic proteins. The program, which was funded in part by the Cancer Prevention Research Institute of Texas, shows promise for speeding up research in cancer epigenetics.
A WSU researcher found that environmental toxicants, including jet fuel and pesticides, can cause disease-causing compounds in offspring for up to three generations. The study demonstrates the potential for transgenerational disease development through epigenetic changes.
Research reveals that childhood maltreatment and parental loss can lead to epigenetic changes in the glucocorticoid receptor gene, increasing stress sensitivity and blunted cortisol responses. This association has significant public health implications, suggesting potential treatments to reverse epigenetic effects of childhood adversity.
A recent study using 30,000-year-old bison bones discovered in Canadian permafrost provides clues on animal adaptation to environmental changes. Researchers measured epigenetic modifications in extinct animals and populations, showing that it is possible to accurately measure these changes in ancient DNA.
Researchers found a significant increase in median survival time for patients with recurrent metastatic non-small cell lung cancer treated with a combination epigenetic therapy. The study, funded by SU2C and the National Cancer Institute, showed four patients achieving major objective responses to subsequent treatments.
Researchers mapped epigenetic changes in neurons from individuals with autism, finding hundreds of sites affected by histone methylation alterations. The study reveals considerable overlap between genetic and epigenetic risk maps for developmental brain disorders.
Patterns formed by a new DNA letter, 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC), suggest it has specific functions in stem cells and brain. The study's findings indicate that 5-hmC may poise genes to be turned on after being repressed.
Researchers have found that stress can be inherited through epigenetic changes, affecting gene expression and potentially influencing diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and schizophrenia. This discovery has implications for the impact of stress on future generations.
The study found two DNA modifications in mitochondrial genomes that regulate gene expression, similar to those in nuclear genomes. This discovery implies a system of gene control in mitochondria, which may contribute to cancer and other age-related diseases.
Researchers found that a small RNA pathway is required to establish DNA methylation, a process that silences genes. This discovery may lead to new therapies for cancer and other diseases by reactivating silenced tumor-suppressor genes.