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Liu X, Sun H, Zheng L, Zhang J, Su H, Li B, Wu Q, Liu Y, Xu Y, Song X, Yu Y. Adipose-derived miRNAs as potential biomarkers for predicting adulthood obesity and its complications: A systematic review and bioinformatic analysis. Obes Rev 2024; 25:e13748. [PMID: 38590187 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Adipose tissue is the first and primary target organ of obesity and the main source of circulating miRNAs in patients with obesity. This systematic review aimed to analyze and summarize the generation and mechanisms of adipose-derived miRNAs and their role as early predictors of various obesity-related complications. Literature searches in the PubMed and Web of Science databases using terms related to miRNAs, obesity, and adipose tissue. Pre-miRNAs from the Human MicroRNA Disease Database, known to regulate obesity-related metabolic disorders, were combined for intersection processing. Validated miRNA targets were sorted through literature review, and enrichment analysis using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes via the KOBAS online tool, disease analysis, and miRNA transcription factor prediction using the TransmiR v. 2.0 database were also performed. Thirty miRNAs were identified using both obesity and adipose secretion as criteria. Seventy-nine functionally validated targets associated with 30 comorbidities of these miRNAs were identified, implicating pathways such as autophagy, p53 pathways, and inflammation. The miRNA precursors were analyzed to predict their transcription factors and explore their biosynthesis mechanisms. Our findings offer potential insights into the epigenetic changes related to adipose-driven obesity-related comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyan Liu
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Huayi Sun
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Department of Colorectal Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Lixia Zheng
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, Key Laboratory of Obesity and Glucose/Lipid Associated Metabolic Diseases, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Han Su
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Bingjie Li
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, Key Laboratory of Obesity and Glucose/Lipid Associated Metabolic Diseases, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Qianhui Wu
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, Key Laboratory of Obesity and Glucose/Lipid Associated Metabolic Diseases, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yunchan Liu
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, Key Laboratory of Obesity and Glucose/Lipid Associated Metabolic Diseases, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yingxi Xu
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaoyu Song
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yang Yu
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Health Sciences Institute, Key Laboratory of Obesity and Glucose/Lipid Associated Metabolic Diseases, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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2
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Son JE. Genetics, pharmacotherapy, and dietary interventions in childhood obesity. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES : A PUBLICATION OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY FOR PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, SOCIETE CANADIENNE DES SCIENCES PHARMACEUTIQUES 2024; 27:12861. [PMID: 38863827 PMCID: PMC11165095 DOI: 10.3389/jpps.2024.12861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Childhood obesity has emerged as a major global health issue, contributing to the increased prevalence of chronic conditions and adversely affecting the quality of life and future prospects of affected individuals, thereby presenting a substantial societal challenge. This complex condition, influenced by the interplay of genetic predispositions and environmental factors, is characterized by excessive energy intake due to uncontrolled appetite regulation and a Westernized diet. Managing obesity in childhood requires specific considerations compared with adulthood, given the vulnerability of the critical juvenile-adolescent period to toxicity and developmental defects. Consequently, common treatment options for adult obesity may not directly apply to younger populations. Therefore, research on childhood obesity has focused on genetic defects in regulating energy intake, alongside pharmacotherapy and dietary interventions as management approaches, with an emphasis on safety concerns. This review aims to summarize canonical knowledge and recent findings on genetic factors contributing to childhood obesity. Additionally, it assesses the efficacy and safety of existing pharmacotherapies and dietary interventions and suggests future research directions. By providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics of childhood obesity, this review aims to offer insights into more targeted and effective strategies for addressing this condition, including personalized healthcare solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Eun Son
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Research Institute of Tailored Food Technology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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3
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Li W, Xia M, Zeng H, Lin H, Teschendorff AE, Gao X, Wang S. Longitudinal analysis of epigenome-wide DNA methylation reveals novel loci associated with BMI change in East Asians. Clin Epigenetics 2024; 16:70. [PMID: 38802969 PMCID: PMC11131215 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-024-01679-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a global public health concern linked to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methylation, may contribute to obesity. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the longitudinal change of BMI has not been well-explored, especially in East Asian populations. METHODS This study performed a longitudinal epigenome-wide association analysis of DNA methylation to uncover novel loci associated with BMI change in 533 individuals across two Chinese cohorts with repeated DNA methylation and BMI measurements over four years. RESULTS We identified three novel CpG sites (cg14671384, cg25540824, and cg10848724) significantly associated with BMI change. Two of the identified CpG sites were located in regions previously associated with body shape and basal metabolic rate. Annotation of the top 20 BMI change-associated CpGs revealed strong connections to obesity and T2D. Notably, these CpGs exhibited active regulatory roles and located in genes with high expression in the liver and digestive tract, suggesting a potential regulatory pathway from genome to phenotypes of energy metabolism and absorption via DNA methylation. Cross-sectional and longitudinal EWAS comparisons indicated different mechanisms between CpGs related to BMI and BMI change. CONCLUSION This study enhances our understanding of the epigenetic dynamics underlying BMI change and emphasizes the value of longitudinal analyses in deciphering the complex interplay between epigenetics and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenran Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingfeng Xia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital and Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Wusong Branch of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hailuan Zeng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital and Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huandong Lin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital and Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Andrew E Teschendorff
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital and Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Sijia Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Taizhou Institute of Health Sciences, Fudan University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
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Manco L, Albuquerque D, Rodrigues D, Machado-Rodrigues AM, Padez C. Protective Association of APOC1/rs4420638 with Risk of Obesity: A case-control Study in Portuguese Children. Biochem Genet 2024; 62:254-263. [PMID: 37328602 PMCID: PMC10902077 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10427-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The association of the rs4420638 polymorphism, near the APOC1 gene, was examined with the risk of obesity among Portuguese children. A sample of 446 Portuguese individuals (231 boys and 215 girls) of European descent, aged 3.2 to 13.7 years old (mean age: 7.98 years), were selected to conduct a case-control study. Body mass index (BMI), BMI Z-scores, and waist circumference were calculated. Genotyping was performed by real time PCR using a pre-designed TaqMan probe. Logistic regression and the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test were used to test the associations. The association results revealed a significant protective effect from the minor G-allele of SNP rs4420638 against obesity, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.619 (95% CI 0.421-0.913; p = 0.0155) in the additive model, and OR of 0.587 (95% CI 0.383-0.9; p = 0.0145) in the dominant model. Moreover, comparing genotype groups (AA vs. AG + GG), significantly lower values (p < 0.05) for the anthropometric traits weight, height, BMI, BMI Z-score and waist circumference, were observed in the carriers of allele G. The present study provides further evidence for the APOE/APOC1 candidate-region association with the risk of obesity. This was the first study to describe the protective association of the rs4420638 minor G-allele against obesity in childhood exclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Licínio Manco
- Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000, Portugal.
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - David Albuquerque
- Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000, Portugal
| | - Daniela Rodrigues
- Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000, Portugal
| | - Aristides M Machado-Rodrigues
- Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000, Portugal
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cristina Padez
- Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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5
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Moholdt T, Stanford KI. Exercised breastmilk: a kick-start to prevent childhood obesity? Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024; 35:23-30. [PMID: 37735048 PMCID: PMC11005327 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Exercise has systemic health benefits through effects on multiple tissues, with intertissue communication. Recent studies indicate that exercise may improve breastmilk composition and thereby reduce the intergenerational transmission of obesity. Even if breastmilk is considered optimal infant nutrition, there is evidence for variations in its composition between mothers who are normal weight, those with obesity, and those who are physically active. Nutrition early in life is important for later-life susceptibility to obesity and other metabolic diseases, and maternal exercise may provide protection against the development of metabolic disease. Here we summarize recent research on the influence of maternal obesity on breastmilk composition and discuss the potential role of exercise-induced adaptations to breastmilk as a kick-start to prevent childhood obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Moholdt
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Kristin I Stanford
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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6
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Yaskolka Meir A, Yun H, Stampfer MJ, Liang L, Hu FB. Nutrition, DNA methylation and obesity across life stages and generations. Epigenomics 2023; 15:991-1015. [PMID: 37933548 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a complex multifactorial condition that often manifests in early life with a lifelong burden on metabolic health. Diet, including pre-pregnancy maternal diet, in utero nutrition and dietary patterns in early and late life, can shape obesity development. Growing evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications, specifically DNA methylation, might mediate or accompany these effects across life stages and generations. By reviewing human observational and intervention studies conducted over the past 10 years, this work provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence linking nutrition to DNA methylation and its association with obesity across different age periods, spanning from preconception to adulthood and identify future research directions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Yaskolka Meir
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Huan Yun
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Meir J Stampfer
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Liming Liang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Frank B Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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7
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Vineis P, Handakas E, Alfano R, Millett C, Fecht D, Chatzi L, Plusquin M, Nawrot T, Richiardi L, Barros H, Vrijheid M, Sassi F, Robinson O. The contribution to policies of an exposome-based approach to childhood obesity. EXPOSOME 2023; 3:osad006. [PMID: 37823001 PMCID: PMC7615122 DOI: 10.1093/exposome/osad006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Childhood obesity is an increasingly severe public health problem, with a prospective impact on health. We propose an exposome approach to identify actionable risk factors for this condition. Our assumption is that relationships between external exposures and outcomes such as rapid growth, overweight, or obesity in children can be better understood through a "meet-in-the-middle" model. This is based on a combination of external and internal exposome-based approaches, that is, the study of multiple exposures (in our case, dietary patterns) and molecular pathways (metabolomics and epigenetics). This may strengthen causal reasoning by identifying intermediate markers that are associated with both exposures and outcomes. Our biomarker-based studies in the STOP consortium suggest (in several ways, including mediation analysis) that branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) could be mediators of the effect of dietary risk factors on childhood overweight/obesity. This is consistent with intervention and animal studies showing that higher intake of BCAAs has a positive impact on body composition, glycemia, and satiety. Concerning food, of particular concern is the trend of increasing intake of ultra-processed food (UPF), including among children. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the impact of UPF on obesity and overweight, including nutrient intake (particularly proteins), changes in appetite, or the role of additives. Research from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children cohort has shown a relationship between UPF intake and trajectories in childhood adiposity, while UPF was related to lower blood levels of BCAAs. We suggest that an exposome-based approach can help strengthening causal reasoning and support policies. Intake of UPF in children should be restricted to prevent obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vineis
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Evangelos Handakas
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Rossella Alfano
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Christopher Millett
- Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, School of Public Heath, Imperial College London, London, UK
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC,, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniela Fecht
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Chemical Radiation Threats and Hazards, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Leda Chatzi
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Plusquin
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Tim Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Lorenzo Richiardi
- Cancer Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Henrique Barros
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Martine Vrijheid
- Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Franco Sassi
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Innovation, Department of Economics and Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Oliver Robinson
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
- Mohn Centre for Children’s Health and Well-being, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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8
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Eichner-Seitz N, Pate RR, Paul IM. Physical activity in infancy and early childhood: a narrative review of interventions for prevention of obesity and associated health outcomes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1155925. [PMID: 37293499 PMCID: PMC10244791 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1155925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the context of the childhood obesity epidemic, this narrative review aims to explore opportunities to promote physical activity (PA) between birth and age 5 years as well as the health outcomes associated with PA in early childhood. Although early childhood is an ideal time to promote healthy habits, guidelines for PA have often ignored early childhood given the limited evidence for children <5 years old. Herein we discuss and highlight infant, toddler and preschool age interventions to promote PA and prevent obesity both in the short and long-term. We describe novel and modified interventions to promote improved early childhood health outcomes, encompassing cardiorespiratory, muscle, and bone strengthening components necessary for short-term motor development and long-term health. We call for new research aimed at developing and testing innovative early childhood interventions that may be performed in home or childcare settings, monitored by parents or caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Eichner-Seitz
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Russell R. Pate
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Ian M. Paul
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
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9
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Lister NB, Baur LA, Felix JF, Hill AJ, Marcus C, Reinehr T, Summerbell C, Wabitsch M. Child and adolescent obesity. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2023; 9:24. [PMID: 37202378 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-023-00435-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of child and adolescent obesity has plateaued at high levels in most high-income countries and is increasing in many low-income and middle-income countries. Obesity arises when a mix of genetic and epigenetic factors, behavioural risk patterns and broader environmental and sociocultural influences affect the two body weight regulation systems: energy homeostasis, including leptin and gastrointestinal tract signals, operating predominantly at an unconscious level, and cognitive-emotional control that is regulated by higher brain centres, operating at a conscious level. Health-related quality of life is reduced in those with obesity. Comorbidities of obesity, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, fatty liver disease and depression, are more likely in adolescents and in those with severe obesity. Treatment incorporates a respectful, stigma-free and family-based approach involving multiple components, and addresses dietary, physical activity, sedentary and sleep behaviours. In adolescents in particular, adjunctive therapies can be valuable, such as more intensive dietary therapies, pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery. Prevention of obesity requires a whole-system approach and joined-up policy initiatives across government departments. Development and implementation of interventions to prevent paediatric obesity in children should focus on interventions that are feasible, effective and likely to reduce gaps in health inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie B Lister
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Institute of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louise A Baur
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- Weight Management Services, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Janine F Felix
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Paediatrics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andrew J Hill
- Institute of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Claude Marcus
- Division of Paediatrics, Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Reinehr
- Vestische Hospital for Children and Adolescents Datteln, University of Witten/Herdecke, Datteln, Germany
| | - Carolyn Summerbell
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Centre, Ulm, Germany
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10
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Calcaterra V, Magenes VC, Hruby C, Siccardo F, Mari A, Cordaro E, Fabiano V, Zuccotti G. Links between Childhood Obesity, High-Fat Diet, and Central Precocious Puberty. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10020241. [PMID: 36832370 PMCID: PMC9954755 DOI: 10.3390/children10020241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the existing relationship between excess overweight and central precocious puberty (CPP) has been reported, especially in girls. Different nutritional choices have been associated with different patterns of puberty. In particular, the involvement of altered biochemical and neuroendocrine pathways and a proinflammatory status has been described in connection with a high-fat diet (HFD). In this narrative review, we present an overview on the relationship between obesity and precocious pubertal development, focusing on the role of HFDs as a contributor to activating the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. Although evidence is scarce and studies limited, especially in the paediatric field, the harm of HFDs on PP is a relevant problem that cannot be ignored. Increased knowledge about HFD effects will be useful in developing strategies preventing precocious puberty in children with obesity. Promoting HFD-avoiding behavior may be useful in preserving children's physiological development and protecting reproductive health. Controlling HFDs may represent a target for policy action to improve global health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Calcaterra
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Chiara Hruby
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Mari
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy
| | - Erika Cordaro
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Fabiano
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “L. Sacco”, University of Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “L. Sacco”, University of Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
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11
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Hemmingsson E, Nowicka P, Ulijaszek S, Sørensen TIA. The social origins of obesity within and across generations. Obes Rev 2023; 24:e13514. [PMID: 36321346 PMCID: PMC10077989 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We propose a model for obesity development that traces a considerable part of its origins to the social domain (mainly different forms of prolonged social adversity), both within and across generations, working in tandem with a genetic predisposition. To facilitate overview of social pathways, we place particular focus on three areas that form a cascading sequence: (A) social adversity within the family (parents having a low education, a low social position, poverty and financial insecurity; offspring being exposed to gestational stress, unmet social and emotional needs, abuse, maltreatment and other negative life events, social deprivation and relationship discord); (B) increasing levels of insecurity, negative emotions, chronic stress, and a disruption of energy homeostasis; and (C) weight gain and obesity, eliciting further social stress and weight stigma in both generations. Social adversity, when combined with genetic predisposition, thereby substantially contributes to highly effective transmission of obesity from parents to offspring, as well as to obesity development within current generations. Prevention efforts may benefit from mitigating multiple types of social adversity in individuals, families, and communities, notably poverty and financial strain, and by improving education levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hemmingsson
- Department of Physical Activity and Health, The Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stanley Ulijaszek
- Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thorkild I A Sørensen
- Department of Public Health and Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Nur Zati Iwani AK, Jalaludin MY, Roslan FA, Mansor F, Md Zain F, Hong JYH, Zin RMWM, Yahya A, Ishak Z, Selamat R, Mokhtar AH. Cardiometabolic risk factors among children who are affected by overweight, obesity and severe obesity. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1097675. [PMID: 37181686 PMCID: PMC10173091 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1097675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The increasing severity of obesity is expected to lead to more serious health effects. However, there is limited information on the prevalence and clinical characteristics of cardiometabolic risk factors in severely children affected by obesity in Malaysia. This baseline study aimed to investigate the prevalence of these factors and their association with obesity status among young children. Methods In this study, a cross-sectional design was employed using the baseline data obtained from the My Body Is Fit and Fabulous at school (MyBFF@school) intervention program involving obese school children. Obesity status was defined using the body mass index (BMI) z-score from the World Health Organization (WHO) growth chart. Cardiometabolic risk factors presented in this study included fasting plasma glucose (FPG), triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), blood pressure, acanthosis nigricans, insulin resistance (IR), and MetS. MetS was defined using the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) 2007 criteria. Descriptive data were presented accordingly. The association between cardiometabolic risk factors, such as obesity status, and acanthosis nigricans with MetS was measured using multivariate logistic regression, which was adjusted for gender, ethnicity, and strata. Results Out of 924 children, 38.4% (n = 355) were overweight, 43.6% (n = 403) were obese, and 18% (n = 166) were severely obese. The overall mean age was 9.9 ± 0.8 years. The prevalence of hypertension, high FPG, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL-C, and the presence of acanthosis nigricans among severely children affected by obesity was 1.8%, 5.4%, 10.2%, 42.8%, and 83.7%, respectively. The prevalence of children affected by obesity who were at risk of MetS in <10-year-old and MetS >10-year-old was observed to be similar at 4.8%. Severely children affected by obesity had higher odds of high FPG [odds ratio (OR) = 3.27; 95% confdence interval (CI) 1.12, 9.55], hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 3.50; 95%CI 1.61, 7.64), low HDL-C (OR = 2.65; 95%CI 1.77, 3.98), acanthosis nigricans (OR = 13.49; 95%CI 8.26, 22.04), IR (OR = 14.35; 95%CI 8.84, 23.30), and MetS (OR = 14.03; 95%CI 3.97, 49.54) compared to overweight and children affected by obesity. The BMI z-score, waist circumference (WC), and percentage body fat showed a significant correlation with triglycerides, HDL-C, the TG: HDL-C ratio, and the homeostatic model assessment for IR (HOMA-IR) index. Conclusions Severely children affected by obesity exhibit a higher prevalence of and are more likely to develop cardiometabolic risk factors compared to overweight and children affected by obesity. This group of children should be monitored closely and screened periodically for obesity-related health problems to institute early and comprehensive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Kamil Nur Zati Iwani
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Institute for Medical Research, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Yazid Jalaludin
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Muhammad Yazid Jalaludin
| | - Farah Aqilah Roslan
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Institute for Medical Research, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Malaysia
| | - Fazliana Mansor
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Institute for Medical Research, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Malaysia
| | - Fuziah Md Zain
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Putrajaya, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Janet Yeow Hua Hong
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Putrajaya, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Ruziana Mona Wan Mohd Zin
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Institute for Medical Research, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Malaysia
| | - Abqariyah Yahya
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zahari Ishak
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Education, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rusidah Selamat
- Nutrition Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Halim Mokhtar
- Department of Sports Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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13
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Tekcan E, Kara N, Aydın HM, Abur Ü, Abbaszadeh M. Evaluation of the promoter methylation status of hypoxia factor 3A and interleukin-6 genes and expression levels of mir-130b and mir-146b in childhood obesity. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2022; 68:1276-1281. [PMID: 36228259 PMCID: PMC9575007 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20220375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obesity, which causes many serious diseases, is increasing exponentially in childhood across the world. Epigenetic changes, as well as genetics, play an important role in the process of adipogenesis. Therefore, we aimed to examine the expression levels of obesity-related MicroRNA-130b and MicroRNA-146b and the methylation status of hypoxia factor 3A and interleukin-6 genes associated with obesity in children. METHODS This study was performed with 98 individuals (49 obese children and 49 controls) whose DNA was isolated from peripheral blood. Gene promoter methylations were analyzed by methylation-specific Polymerase chain reaction. In addition, expression levels of MicroRNAs were determined by quantitative real-time Polymerase chain reaction in 30 children (15 obese children and 15 controls). RESULTS Methylation status of interleukin-6 gene was 93.9% in obese children (n=46/49) and 100% (n=49/49) in control group (p>0.05). There was no methylation for hypoxia factor 3A gene (p>0.05). As a result of the study, there was no statistically significant difference in terms of methylation status for hypoxia factor 3A and interleukin-6 genes in the obese group compared to the control group. However, we found that expression levels of MicroRNA-130b (p<0.01) and MicroRNA-146b (p<0.001) were higher in the obese group. CONCLUSIONS Results support that MicroRNA-130b and MicroRNA-146b are potential biomarkers for the prevention and early diagnosis of obesity. This is the first study on childhood obesity in the Middle Black Sea region of Turkey. We believe that the results obtained by expanding the studies in our country and neighboring countries will be more decisive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Tekcan
- Ondokuz Mayis University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology – Samsun, Turkey.,Corresponding author:
| | - Nurten Kara
- Ondokuz Mayis University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology – Samsun, Turkey
| | - Hasan Murat Aydın
- Ondokuz Mayis University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology – Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ümmet Abur
- Ondokuz Mayis University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics – Samsun, Turkey
| | - Mohsen Abbaszadeh
- Ondokuz Mayis University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics – Samsun, Turkey
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Handakas E, Xu Y, Segal AB, Huerta MC, Bowman K, Howe LD, Sassi F, Robinson O. Molecular mediators of the association between child obesity and mental health. Front Genet 2022; 13:947591. [PMID: 36118877 PMCID: PMC9473726 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.947591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological mechanisms underlying the association between obesity and depression remain unclear. We investigated the role of metabolites and DNA methylation as mediators of the relationship between childhood obesity and subsequent poor mental health in the English Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Obesity was defined according to United Kingdom Growth charts at age 7 years and mental health through the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ) completed at age 11 years. Metabolites and DNA methylation were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and Illumina array in blood at the age of 7 years. The associations between obesity and SMFQ score, as continuous count data or using cut-offs to define depressive symptoms (SMFQ >7) or depression (SMFQ >11), were tested using adjusted Poisson and logistic regression. Candidate metabolite mediators were identified through metabolome-wide association scans for obesity and SMFQ score, correcting for false-discovery rate. Candidate DNA methylation mediators were identified through testing the association of putative BMI-associated CpG sites with SMFQ scores, correcting for look-up false-discovery rate. Mediation by candidate molecular markers was tested. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were additionally applied to test causal associations of metabolites with depression in independent adult samples. 4,018 and 768 children were included for metabolomics and epigenetics analyses, respectively. Obesity at 7 years was associated with a 14% increase in SMFQ score (95% CI: 1.04, 1.25) and greater odds of depression (OR: 1.46 (95% CI: 0.78, 2.38) at 11 years. Natural indirect effects (mediating pathways) between obesity and depression for tyrosine, leucine and conjugated linoleic acid were 1.06 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.13, proportion mediated (PM): 15%), 1.04 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.10, PM: 9.6%) and 1.06 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.12, PM: 13.9%) respectively. In MR analysis, one unit increase in tyrosine was associated with 0.13 higher log odds of depression (p = 0.1). Methylation at cg17128312, located in the FBXW9 gene, had a natural indirect effect of 1.05 (95% CI: 1.01,1.13, PM: 27%) as a mediator of obesity and SMFQ score. Potential biologically plausible mechanisms involving these identified molecular features include neurotransmitter regulation, inflammation, and gut microbiome modulation. These results require replication in further observational and mechanistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Handakas
- Μedical Research Council Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yiwen Xu
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Innovation, Department of Economics and Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexa Blair Segal
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Innovation, Department of Economics and Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Carmen Huerta
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Innovation, Department of Economics and Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty Bowman
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Laura D. Howe
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Franco Sassi
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Innovation, Department of Economics and Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Robinson
- Μedical Research Council Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Panera N, Mandato C, Crudele A, Bertrando S, Vajro P, Alisi A. Genetics, epigenetics and transgenerational transmission of obesity in children. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1006008. [PMID: 36452324 PMCID: PMC9704419 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1006008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sedentary lifestyle and consumption of high-calorie foods have caused a relentless increase of overweight and obesity prevalence at all ages. Its presently epidemic proportion is disquieting due to the tight relationship of obesity with metabolic syndrome and several other comorbidities which do call for urgent workarounds. The usual ineffectiveness of present therapies and failure of prevention campaigns triggered overtime a number of research studies which have unveiled some relevant aspects of obesity genetic and epigenetic inheritable profiles. These findings are revealing extremely precious mainly to serve as a likely extra arrow to allow the clinician's bow to achieve still hitherto unmet preventive goals. Evidence now exists that maternal obesity/overnutrition during pregnancy and lactation convincingly appears associated with several disorders in the offspring independently of the transmission of a purely genetic predisposition. Even the pre-conception direct exposure of either father or mother gametes to environmental factors can reprogram the epigenetic architecture of cells. Such phenomena lie behind the transfer of the obesity susceptibility to future generations through a mechanism of epigenetic inheritance. Moreover, a growing number of studies suggests that several environmental factors such as maternal malnutrition, hypoxia, and exposure to excess hormones and endocrine disruptors during pregnancy and the early postnatal period may play critical roles in programming childhood adipose tissue and obesity. A deeper understanding of how inherited genetics and epigenetics may generate an obesogenic environment at pediatric age might strengthen our knowledge about pathogenetic mechanisms and improve the clinical management of patients. Therefore, in this narrative review, we attempt to provide a general overview of the contribution of heritable genetic and epigenetic patterns to the obesity susceptibility in children, placing a particular emphasis on the mother-child dyad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Panera
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Mandato
- Pediatrics Section, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salermo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Anna Alisi, ; Claudia Mandato,
| | - Annalisa Crudele
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Bertrando
- Pediatrics Clinic, San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona University Hospital, Salerno, Italy
| | - Pietro Vajro
- Pediatrics Section, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salermo, Italy
| | - Anna Alisi
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Anna Alisi, ; Claudia Mandato,
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