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Epigenetics has many connections to our cellular processes. It regulates the expression of our genes, so it wouldn’t surprise us that epigenetics is involved in the regulation of our circadian rhythms as well. But what exactly are these circadian rhythms and how can they be involved in certain processes of health and disease? What are circadian rhythms? Circadian rhythms are biological processes which govern not only our sleep-wake cycle, but also a wide variety of physiological functions, such as hormone release, feeding habits [more...]

Disturbances in the circadian system have a profound impact on health, and they have been linked to several pathologies, including obesity, sleep, and psychiatric disorders like depression, Alzheimer or bipolar disorder, cardiovascular disease, changes in cognitive function and memory formation, and even cancer.

#epigenetics #circadian rhythm #sleep #DNA methylation #Histone acetylation

If you are familiar with cattle, you may be aware of the dangers heat poses to these sensitive creatures. They have a lower tolerance for heat than humans do, and if their bodies become too warm, they can experience changes that are neither beneficial for farmers and consumers, nor for the animals themselves. Temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, and amount of direct sunlight are all main factors in determining an animal’s body temperature. If these variables are not monitored properly, cattle [more...]

Scientists at the University of Florida, however, may be able to shed some light on this occurrence in their recent study published in Scientific Reports. Considering how early life environment can epigenetically impact development, the team sought to determine if in utero heat stress causes alterations in phenotype via changes in DNA methylation. Their investigation looked at key regulatory gene pathways in the liver and mammary gland of bull calves and heifers that were maternally exposed to environmental heat stress during late gestation.

#epigenetics #epigenome #dairy cattle #cows #DNA methylation

Marijuana has been the topic of much recent debate across the United States, and its legalization has undoubtedly gained some ground. Almost all states in the US have legalized marijuana in some capacity, whether it be for medicinal or recreational purposes which could have a positive effect on both medicine and the economy. Cannabis has provided some relief for patients suffering from various sicknesses like chronic pain, depression, PTSD, anxiety, and even HIV/AIDs and cancers. As the use of marijuana [more...]

According to a recent study out of Duke Health, heavy marijuana use may epigenetically alter a man’s sperm, and could potentially affect the children they conceive. As we know, a father’s exposure to phthalates as well as past trauma, diet, and nicotine use can epigenetically alter his sperm, but it turns out that increased exposure to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in marijuana, can cause changes in structure and regulation of the DNA in sperm.

#epigenetics #marijuana #DNA methylation #sperm health #birth defects

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 20 million people in the United States and an estimated 8 to 16 percent of the world’s population. It is known that anomalous DNA methylation, aberrant histone alterations, and changes to microRNA expression all contribute to its pathogenesis. These epigenetic factors are crucial to the development and proper functioning of the kidneys. The manner and extent to which these factors modulate inflammation, fibrosis, and the transition of mesenchymal to epithelial cells is still being elucidated. The [more...]

Epigenetic modifications are essential for normal cell development and function. They regulate gene expression by switching genes on or off, thus determining which proteins are transcribed. Disruptions in epigenetic alterations have been associated with contributing to certain disease states, from breast cancer, to Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and more.

#epigenetics #kidney disease #CKD #histone modifications #DNA methylation #health

The human body is made up of about 100 trillion cells, but not all these cells are ‘real’ human cells. About one-tenth, in fact, are tiny organisms like bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live within us and on us. These organisms are collectively known as microbes and they play an essential role in human health and disease. Yet, exactly how they function and are affected by environmental changes is not entirely understood, and even less is known about how the [more...]

In recent years, high-throughput sequencing technologies have become essential for studying genomics, epigenomics, and transcriptomics. As well, there has been increasing interest in exploring RNA modifications and their critical role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. We’ve previously reported on epigenetic studies where RNA methylation was found to be involved in memory formation and child development and how the most abundant modification, 6-methyladenosine (m6A), is being researched for its participation in DNA damage responseamong other things. We’ve also highlighted epigenetic studies on the microbiome and how gut bacteria impacts certain epigenetic marks. The findings from this study, it seems, enhances the epigenetic researcher’s toolbox, putting RNA and the microbiome in the spotlight for further exploration.

#microbiome #epigenetics #gut health #RNA #RNA-sequencing

It’s been said before that health begins in the womb. That’s because the conditions we encounter in utero impact not only our well-being in infancy but throughout our entire lives. But what happens when the nutritional environment in the womb is less than favorable? Most epigenetic studies have suggested that embryos respond to adverse environmental conditions by adjusting their gene expression. However, new research proposes something entirely different may occur. Instead of adapting to the environment, random variations in gene [more...]

In this study, the scientists examined the second alternative as a possible explanation for associations made between adverse prenatal care and health issues in adulthood. They were motivated by the correlation that babies conceived during the Dutch Hunger Famine of 1944-45 suffered from poor cardiovascular health later on in life as adults. This has been attributed to epigenetic modifications or changes in gene expression that persisted throughout the survivor’s lives.

#womb health #epigenetics #nutrition #pregnancy #DNA methylation

Receiving the diagnosis of a brain cancer is undoubtedly disastrous news that nobody wants to hear for themselves or their loved ones. Although significant advances have been made to understand and treat many cancers, the mortality rate remains high for cancers of the brain. New research, however, may be shedding light on one form of brain cancer by investigating the epigenetic character of the disease. Glioblastoma is the most common and deadliest type of brain cancer in adults. It’s considered [more...]

Because glioblastoma is very complex and extremely aggressive, it remains elusive to detection and treatment. Generally, tumors develop due to a number of genetic mutations from inherited mutated DNA, or exposure to carcinogens. In addition to the genetic factors, epigenetic modifications to certain genes may also play a role in tumor development.

#epigenetics #brain cancer #Glioblastoma #DNA methylation #epigenetic modifications

Depression can certainly take its toll on a variety of physical and mental processes, so it’s no surprise that major depression often coincides with a shortened lifespan. Now scientists are finding that there may be more to this link than just purely an unfortunate coincidence. According to a new study, major depression disorder (MDD) may actually speed up the aging process on a molecular level and the results illuminate a significant epigenetic mechanism. MDD is a very common mental disorder [more...]

The role of epigenetics in MDD is not well known, but current research is investigating the changes that MDD can make to a person’s DNA, histones and chromatin. This devastating disease hides behind many faces and can be a product of various things like socio-economic status, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other factors.

In a study published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, Dr. Laura Han from the Amsterdam UMCled a group of researchers to determine the effects that MDD has on a person’s epigenetic age. Dr. Han and her team focused on the patient’s epigenetic clock, which is a molecular age estimation of most tissues and cell types based on a person’s DNA methylation patterns at a point in their life.

#epigenetics #depression #DNA methylation #PTSD #bipolar disorder #Major Depression Disorder

For centuries, people all around the globe have known about the health benefits of herbs and spices. One spice, in particular, stands out not only for its bright yellow color but also for its potent healing powers. This wonder spice is Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, and it belongs to the ginger family. Traditionally used in Indian cooking as a main ingredient in curry powder, this spice is also used to make medicine. Numerous studies have promoted turmeric as [more...]

Naturally-occurring chemical compounds found in certain foods, herbs, and minerals are known to possess beneficial epigenetic effects. Scientists have found over 300 compounds in turmeric, but the one that has been given the most attention is curcumin, primarily for its anti-inflammatory properties. Now, this compound is proving to be effective in reducing liver damage caused by a widely used hyperthyroidism medication. How it works may be due to its ability to restore the epigenetic modifications induced by the drug.

Thyroid hormones are essential for the function of nearly every cell in the body. They help control numerous metabolic processes that are critical for normal growth and development, as well as regulating metabolism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much of these hormones. This can cause rapid heart rate, weight loss, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, and more.

#epigenetics #tumeric #thyroid #hyperthyroidism #DNA methylation

Garlic has been used in food and as medicine since ancient times. Considered a superfood for its role as a health promoter, this small, pungent vegetable is widely used today to prevent and treat numerous conditions from the common cold to heart disease, cancer, and more. Now new research is confirming garlic’s medicinal ability, finding that it contains a powerful substance that acts epigenetically to halt the growth of ovarian cancer. There are numerous nutrients in garlic that are beneficial [more...]

Ovarian cancer is a leading gynecological cancer that affects more than 22,000 women each year. Unlike other cancers, there are no precise screening tests for OC and it can be difficult to detect in the early stages. For this reason and others, the prognosis for many ovarian cancer patients is poor. Rapid tumor progression, drug resistance, and high metastasis rates are common challenges with this disease, making the need for newer more effective therapies vital.

#epigenetics #ovarian cancer #garlic #DNA methylation #DNMT

Excessive exposure to fluoride has been shown to cause adverse health effects, many of which cannot be corrected. While several studies have examined chronic fluoride exposure and its link to certain conditions, little is known about the epigenetic mechanisms involved.

In a study published in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, scientists set out to learn more about the epigenetic effects of excessive fluoride exposure. In particular, they focused on the role of histone modification in the development of skeletal fluorosis, a crippling and painful bone disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

Found naturally in soil, water, and food, fluoride is safe in small amounts and necessary to ensure proper bone and tooth development. However, overexposure to the chemical can cause skeletal and dental deformities. Known collectively as fluorosis, this condition results in bone deterioration and/or mottling and discoloration of tooth enamel. Ranging in severity, the condition is dependent upon the amount, duration, and age of the individual during fluoride exposure.

#water fluoridation #Epigenetics #histone modifications #chromosomes #gene expression #bone health

Maintaining proper nutrition is a very important factor in living a long, healthy life. Foods that have little nutritional benefits have become easier to get our hands on, so the emphasis on proper nutritional health has become a fleeting priority for some people and their families. As a result, most individuals have inadvertently accepted the western diet, rich in empty carbs, red meats and saturated fats, as their everyday diet. Diet can also impact a person’s epigenetics, and people can [more...]

Over the last century or more, girls have been experiencing puberty at a much younger age. In the US, the average age of menarche (the beginning of menstruation) is now 12.5, preceded by puberty-induced body changes that occur on average 2-3 years earlier.

Environmental and genetic factors can influence the onset of puberty. And early on-set puberty in girls can lead to future health problems including heart disease, diabetes, and breast cancer.

#epigenetics #early puberty #girls #breast cancer #HDAC #Histone Deacetylase #DNA Methylation #diet #obesity

Red Wine components may epigentetically help prevent breast cancer growth.

In recent years, the impact of dietary components used in combination to combat cancer has gained notable interest. In particular, certain phytochemicals commonly found in red wine such as grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSPs) and resveratrol (Res) have shown to exhibit anticancer properties. Yet, how these two chemicals affect cellular activity is not fully understood.

#red wine #breast cancer #histone deactylase #HDAC #dna methyltransferase #DNMT #resveratrol

Researchers are trying to figure out what epigenetic factors affect breast cancer can assist with early detection, treatment and prevention.

While everyone is born with a set genetic code, epigenetic marks written on top of the DNA dictate whether or not specific genes are expressed. Some of these marks occur when a methyl group attaches to part of the DNA and it becomes methylated.

#breast cancer #epigenetics #dna methylation #heritable epigenetics #brca1 #brca2

October is officially recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is dedicated to raising awareness and funding to improve medical research towards curing and preventing this disease that affects so many. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, it is estimated that 1 in every 8 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. This disease impacts nearly every person in the US, and all over the world in some way. Although [more...]

Breast cancer has been a predominant topic among the research community, and over the years newer, more effective treatments have evolved. Yet, there are many risk factors associated with developing breast cancer, including age, genetics, diet, and if you are a smoker. It is believed that prevention may be the best approach to fighting this disease.

#breast cancer #epigenetics #october #breast cancer awareness month #Histone Acetylation #breast cancer research

Maintaining a healthy diet can be incredibly difficult to do, especially with the temptations of junk food, alcohol, and sweets. Often times we are in a rush to get to plans that we’ve made, or go grab a drink after work, and we forget to prioritize putting nutritious foods in our bodies. As a result, most of us follow a western diet in our everyday lives, because the foods are more readily available (and seem to taste better). This diet [more...]

In a recent study published in JCI Insights, a group of researchers from the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center sought to learn more about the relationship between the microbiome and epigenetics, how it can affect the development of IBD, and the potential therapies and treatments that can be created for those who suffer with the digestive disorder. Particularly, the team focused their efforts on histone methylation, which is an epigenetic mechanism that controls gene expression by adding methyl groups at certain sites on the DNA.

#microbiome #epigenetics #histone methylation #inflammatory bowel disease #chron's disease

Scientists may have discovered a link between diet, histone modifications and whether or not a honeybee becomes a worker or a queen.

In a study published in Genome Research, researchers from Queen Mary University of London and Australian National University looked at histone modifications early in the honeybee’s development and determined queen and worker bees each have characteristic patterns of histone modifications on their genomes.

#honeybees #epigenetics #histone acetylation #histone methylation #histone modifications #chromatin

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