1
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Derakhshan M, Kessler NJ, Hellenthal G, Silver MJ. Metastable epialleles in humans. Trends Genet 2024; 40:52-68. [PMID: 38000919 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.09.007] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
First identified in isogenic mice, metastable epialleles (MEs) are loci where the extent of DNA methylation (DNAm) is variable between individuals but correlates across tissues derived from different germ layers within a given individual. This property, termed systemic interindividual variation (SIV), is attributed to stochastic methylation establishment before germ layer differentiation. Evidence suggests that some putative human MEs are sensitive to environmental exposures in early development. In this review we introduce key concepts pertaining to human MEs, describe methods used to identify MEs in humans, and review their genomic features. We also highlight studies linking DNAm at putative human MEs to early environmental exposures and postnatal (including disease) phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Derakhshan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Noah J Kessler
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | | | - Matt J Silver
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK; Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, Banjul, The Gambia.
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2
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Epigenetics and Gut Microbiota Crosstalk: A potential Factor in Pathogenesis of Cardiovascular Disorders. BIOENGINEERING (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:bioengineering9120798. [PMID: 36551003 PMCID: PMC9774431 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9120798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality, morbidity, and "sudden death" globally. Environmental and lifestyle factors play important roles in CVD susceptibility, but the link between environmental factors and genetics is not fully established. Epigenetic influence during CVDs is becoming more evident as its direct involvement has been reported. The discovery of epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, suggested that external factors could alter gene expression to modulate human health. These external factors also influence our gut microbiota (GM), which participates in multiple metabolic processes in our body. Evidence suggests a high association of GM with CVDs. Although the exact mechanism remains unclear, the influence of GM over the epigenetic mechanisms could be one potential pathway in CVD etiology. Both epigenetics and GM are dynamic processes and vary with age and environment. Changes in the composition of GM have been found to underlie the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases via modulating epigenetic changes in the form of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and regulation of non-coding RNAs. Several metabolites produced by the GM, including short-chain fatty acids, folates, biotin, and trimethylamine-N-oxide, have the potential to regulate epigenetics, apart from playing a vital role in normal physiological processes. The role of GM and epigenetics in CVDs are promising areas of research, and important insights in the field of early diagnosis and therapeutic approaches might appear soon.
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3
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Zahir FR. Epigenomic impacts of meditative practices. Epigenomics 2022; 14:1593-1608. [PMID: 36891912 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Meditative practices (MPs) are an inherent lifestyle and healing practice employed in Eastern medicine and spirituality. Integrating MPs into world mainstream medicine (WMM) requires effective empirical investigation of psychophysiological impacts. Epigenomic regulation is a probable mechanism of action that is empirically assessable. Recently, WMM-styled studies have screened the epigenomic impacts of MPs with early encouraging results. This article discusses the variety of MPs extant across three major Eastern religio-spiritual-healing traditions and their integration into WMM via the lens of epigenomic modulation. MPs unanimously report positive impacts on stress-reduction pathways, known to be epigenomically sensitive. Early high-resolution assays show MPs are potent in altering the epigenome - dynamically and by inducing long-term changes. This suggests the importance of integrating MPs into WMM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah R Zahir
- Irfa'a Foundation, 5063 North Service Road, Burlington, ON, L7L 5H6 Canada
- Departent of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1 Canada
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4
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Alfano R, Robinson O, Handakas E, Nawrot TS, Vineis P, Plusquin M. Perspectives and challenges of epigenetic determinants of childhood obesity: A systematic review. Obes Rev 2022; 23 Suppl 1:e13389. [PMID: 34816569 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The tremendous increase in childhood obesity prevalence over the last few decades cannot merely be explained by genetics and evolutionary changes in the genome, implying that gene-environment interactions, such as epigenetic modifications, likely play a major role. This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence of the association between epigenetics and childhood obesity. A literature search was performed via PubMed and Scopus engines using a combination of terms related to epigenetics and pediatric obesity. Articles studying the association between epigenetic mechanisms (including DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, non-coding RNAs, and chromatin and histones modification) and obesity and/or overweight (or any related anthropometric parameters) in children (0-18 years) were included. The risk of bias was assessed with a modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale for non-randomized studies. One hundred twenty-one studies explored epigenetic changes related to childhood obesity. DNA methylation was the most widely investigated mechanism (N = 101 studies), followed by non-coding RNAs (N = 19 studies) with evidence suggestive of an association with childhood obesity for DNA methylation of specific genes and microRNAs (miRNAs). One study, focusing on histones modification, was identified. Heterogeneity of findings may have hindered more insights into the epigenetic changes related to childhood obesity. Gaps and challenges that future research should face are herein described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Alfano
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Medical Research Council-Health Protection Agency Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Oliver Robinson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Medical Research Council-Health Protection Agency Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Evangelos Handakas
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Medical Research Council-Health Protection Agency Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tim S Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Paolo Vineis
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Medical Research Council-Health Protection Agency Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Unit of Molecular and Genetic Epidemiology, Human Genetic Foundation (HuGeF), Turin, Italy
| | - Michelle Plusquin
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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5
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You YA, Kwon EJ, Hwang HS, Choi SJ, Choi SK, Kim YJ. Elevated methylation of the vault RNA2-1 promoter in maternal blood is associated with preterm birth. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:528. [PMID: 34246240 PMCID: PMC8272312 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07865-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth, defined as parturition before 37 completed weeks of gestation, is associated with an increased risk of neonatal complications and death, as well as poor health and disease later in life. Epigenetics could contribute to the mechanism underlying preterm birth. Results Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of whole blood cells from 10 women (5 term and 5 preterm deliveries) was performed using an Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChips array. We identified 1,581 differentially methylated CpG sites in promoter regions between term and preterm birth. Although the differences were not significant after correcting for multiple tests, seven CpGs on the genomically imprinted vault RNA2-1 (VTRNA2-1; also known as non-coding RNA, nc886 or miR-886) showed the largest differences (range: 26–39 %). Pyrosequencing verification was performed with blood samples from pregnant women recruited additionally (39 term and 43 preterm deliveries). In total, 28 (34.1 %) samples showed hypomethylation of the VTRNA2-1 promoter (< 13 % methylation), while 54 (65.9 %) samples showed elevated methylation levels between 30 and 60 %. Elevated methylation of VTRNA2-1 promoter was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth after adjusting for maternal age, season of delivery, parity and white blood cell count. The mRNA expression of VTRNA2-1 was 0.51-fold lower in women with preterm deliveries (n = 20) compared with women with term deliveries (n = 20). Conclusions VTRNA2-1 is a noncoding transcript to environmentally responsive epialleles. Our results suggest that elevated methylation of the VTRNA2-1 promoter may result in increased risk of PTB caused by the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Further studies are needed to confirm the association of VTRNA2-1 methylation with preterm birth in a large population, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07865-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Ah You
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University Medical School, 07985, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Jin Kwon
- Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, 03760, Seoul, Korea
| | - Han-Sung Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, 143-729, Seoul, Korea
| | - Suk-Joo Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 135-710, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sae Kyung Choi
- College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 505 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, 137-040, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University Medical School, 07985, Seoul, Korea. .,Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, 03760, Seoul, Korea. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Womans University Mok Dong Hospital, 158-051, Seoul, South Korea.
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6
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Womersley JS, Nothling J, Toikumo S, Malan-Müller S, van den Heuvel LL, McGregor NW, Seedat S, Hemmings SMJ. Childhood trauma, the stress response and metabolic syndrome: A focus on DNA methylation. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 55:2253-2296. [PMID: 34169602 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Childhood trauma (CT) is well established as a potent risk factor for the development of mental disorders. However, the potential of adverse early experiences to exert chronic and profound effects on physical health, including aberrant metabolic phenotypes, has only been more recently explored. Among these consequences is metabolic syndrome (MetS), which is characterised by at least three of five related cardiometabolic traits: hypertension, insulin resistance/hyperglycaemia, raised triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein and central obesity. The deleterious effects of CT on health outcomes may be partially attributable to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which coordinates the response to stress, and the consequent fostering of a pro-inflammatory environment. Epigenetic tags, such as DNA methylation, which are sensitive to environmental influences provide a means whereby the effects of CT can be biologically embedded and persist into adulthood to affect health and well-being. The methylome regulates the transcription of genes involved in the stress response, metabolism and inflammation. This narrative review examines the evidence for DNA methylation in CT and MetS in order to identify shared neuroendocrine and immune correlates that may mediate the increased risk of MetS following CT exposure. Our review specifically highlights differential methylation of FKBP5, the gene that encodes FK506-binding protein 51 and has pleiotropic effects on stress responding, inflammation and energy metabolism, as a central candidate to understand the molecular aetiology underlying CT-associated MetS risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline S Womersley
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jani Nothling
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sylvanus Toikumo
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Malan-Müller
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leigh L van den Heuvel
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nathaniel W McGregor
- Systems Genetics Working Group, Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sîan M J Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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7
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Liu P, Zhang J, Du D, Zhang D, Jin Z, Qiu W, Zhou X, Dong S, Zhou M, Zhao H, Zhang W, Ma J, Sun S, Fu W, Liu Y, Wang L. Altered DNA methylation pattern reveals epigenetic regulation of Hox genes in thoracic aortic dissection and serves as a biomarker in disease diagnosis. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:124. [PMID: 34103071 PMCID: PMC8186232 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01110-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is a severe disease with limited understandings in its pathogenesis. Altered DNA methylation has been revealed to be involved in many diseases etiology. Few studies have examined the role of DNA methylation in the development of TAD. This study explored alterations of the DNA methylation landscape in TAD and examined the potential role of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) methylation as a biomarker in TAD diagnosis. RESULTS Ascending aortic tissues from TAD patients (Stanford type A; n = 6) and healthy controls (n = 6) were first examined via whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). While no obvious global methylation shift was observed, numerous differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified, with associated genes enriched in the areas of vasculature and heart development. We further confirmed the methylation and expression changes in homeobox (Hox) clusters with 10 independent samples using bisulfite pyrosequencing and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Among these, HOXA5, HOXB6 and HOXC6 were significantly down-regulated in TAD samples relative to controls. To evaluate cfDNA methylation pattern as a biomarker in TAD diagnosis, cfDNA from TAD patients (Stanford type A; n = 7) and healthy controls (n = 4) were examined by WGBS. A prediction model was built using DMRs identified previously from aortic tissues on methylation data from cfDNA. Both high sensitivity (86%) and specificity (75%) were achieved in patient classification (AUC = 0.96). CONCLUSIONS These findings showed an altered epigenetic regulation in TAD patients. This altered epigenetic regulation and subsequent altered expression of genes associated with vasculature and heart development, such as Hox family genes, may contribute to the loss of aortic integrity and TAD pathogenesis. Additionally, the cfDNA methylation in TAD was highly disease specific, which can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for disease prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiru Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Xiamen Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China.,Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Department of Cardiac Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Duo Du
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zelin Jin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenqing Qiu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiushi Zhou
- Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shulong Dong
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengyu Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Heyu Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiakang Ma
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoyang Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiguo Fu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Xiamen Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China. .,Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lixin Wang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Xiamen Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China. .,Vascular Surgery Department, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Lee HA, Park B, Min J, Choi EJ, Kim UJ, Park HJ, Park EA, Cho SJ, Kim HS, Lee H, Kim YJ, Hong YS, Kim EJ, Ha EH, Park H. Cohort profile: the Ewha Birth and Growth Study. Epidemiol Health 2021; 43:e2021016. [PMID: 33677859 PMCID: PMC8060523 DOI: 10.4178/epih.e2021016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
With the introduction of life-course epidemiology, researchers realized the importance of identifying risk factors in early life to prevent chronic diseases. This led to the establishment of the Ewha Birth and Growth Study in 2001; the study is a prospective birth cohort designed to provide evidence of early life risk factors for a child's growth and health. Participants were recruited from those who visited Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital (a tertiary hospital in southwest Seoul, Korea) for prenatal care at 24-28 weeks of gestation. In total, 891 mothers enrolled in this study between 2001 and 2006 and their offspring (n=940) were followed-up. Regular check-up examinations of offspring were conducted at 3 years, 5 years, and 7 years of age and every year thereafter. To consider age-related health issues, extensive data were collected using questionnaires and measurements. In 2021, the study subjects will reach 19 years of age, and we are planning a check-up examination for early adulthood. About 20 years have passed since the cohort data were collected, and we have published results on childhood health outcomes associated with prenatal and birth characteristics, genetic and epigenetic characteristics related to childhood metabolism, the effects of exposure to endocrine disruptors, and dietary patterns in childhood. Recently, we started reporting on topics related to adolescent health. The findings will facilitate identification of early life risk factors for chronic diseases and the development of interventions for diseases later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ah Lee
- Clinical Trial Center, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bohyun Park
- National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jungwon Min
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Eun Jeong Choi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ui Jeong Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Ae Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jin Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hae Soon Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hwayoung Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Sun Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eui-Jung Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Hee Ha
- Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyesook Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
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9
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Long-term effects of pro-opiomelanocortin methylation induced in food-restricted dams on metabolic phenotypes in male rat offspring. Obstet Gynecol Sci 2020; 63:239-250. [PMID: 32489968 PMCID: PMC7231940 DOI: 10.5468/ogs.2020.63.3.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Maternal malnutrition affects the growth and metabolic health of the offspring. Little is known about the long-term effect on metabolic indices of epigenetic changes in the brain caused by maternal diet. Thus, we explored the effect of maternal food restriction during pregnancy on metabolic profiles of the offspring, by evaluating the DNA methylation of hypothalamic appetite regulators at 3 weeks of age. Methods Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 2 groups: a control group and a group with a 50% food-restricted (FR) diet during pregnancy. Methylation and expression of appetite regulator genes were measured in 3-week-old offspring using pyrosequencing, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting analyses. We analyzed the relationship between DNA methylation and metabolic profiles by Pearson's correlation analysis. Results The expression of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) decreased, whereas DNA methylation significantly increased in male offspring of the FR dams, compared to the male offspring of control dams. Hypermethylation of POMC was positively correlated with the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in 3-week-old male offspring. In addition, there were significant positive correlations between hypermethylation of POMC and the levels of triglycerides, HDL-C, and leptin in 6-month-old male offspring. Conclusion Our findings suggest that maternal food restriction during pregnancy influences the expression of hypothalamic appetite regulators via epigenetic changes, leading to the development of metabolic disorders in the offspring.
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10
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Zhu Z, Cao F, Li X. Epigenetic Programming and Fetal Metabolic Programming. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:764. [PMID: 31849831 PMCID: PMC6901800 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal metabolic programming caused by the adverse intrauterine environment can induce metabolic syndrome in adult offspring. Adverse intrauterine environment introduces fetal long-term relatively irreversible changes in organs and metabolism, and thus causes fetal metabolic programming leading metabolic syndrome in adult offspring. Fetal metabolic programming of obesity and insulin resistance plays a key role in this process. The mechanism of fetal metabolic programming is still not very clear. It is suggested that epigenetic programming, also induced by the adverse intrauterine environment, is a critical underlying mechanism of fetal metabolic programming. Fetal epigenetic programming affects gene expression changes and cellular function through epigenetic modifications without DNA nucleotide sequence changes. Epigenetic modifications can be relatively stably retained and transmitted through mitosis and generations, and thereby induce the development of metabolic syndrome in adult offspring. This manuscript provides an overview of the critical role of epigenetic programming in fetal metabolic programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Zhu
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Changzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Fang Cao
- Changzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Xiaozhong Li
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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11
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Kwon EJ, Lee HA, You YA, Yoo JY, Park H, Park EA, Ha EH, Kim YJ. MC4R and HNF4α promoter methylation at birth contribute to triglyceride levels in childhood: A prospective cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e16424. [PMID: 31305461 PMCID: PMC6641802 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000016424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the changes in DNA methylation are assumed to be due to the association between adverse intrauterine conditions and adult metabolic health, evidence from human studies is rare. Little is known about the changes in DNA methylation present at birth that affect metabolic profiles in childhood. Previous studies have shown that the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) genes are associated with obesity and metabolic disorders. Thus, we investigated the associations of the DNA methylation statuses of MC4R and HNF4α in cord blood with metabolic profiles in childhood.We collected data from 90 children 7 to 9 years of age included in the Ewha Birth & Growth Cohort Study in Korea. DNA methylation was analyzed by pyrosequencing. The children were split into 2 groups according to the cutoff triglyceride (TG) levels (<110 and ≥110 mg/dL).The methylation statuses of MC4R and HNF4α at birth were significantly associated with the TG level in childhood (P < .05). It was interesting to note that the methylation statuses of MC4R and HNF4α in cord blood were significantly decreased, whereas childhood body mass index was significantly increased, in children with high TG levels compared with children with low TG levels (P < .05).Our findings show that the methylation statuses of MC4R and HNF4α at birth are associated with metabolic profiles in childhood. These epigenetic modifications occurring in early life may contribute to subsequent metabolic-related disorders. Thus, we suggest that DNA methylation status in cord blood may be predictive of the risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eun Hee Ha
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Epigenetic regulation of POMC; implications for nutritional programming, obesity and metabolic disease. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 54:100773. [PMID: 31344387 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a key mediator of satiety. Epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation may modulate POMC expression and provide a biological link between early life exposures and later phenotype. Animal studies suggest epigenetic marks at POMC are influenced by maternal energy excess and restriction, prenatal stress and Triclosan exposure. Postnatal factors including energy excess, folate, vitamin A, conjugated linoleic acid and leptin may also affect POMC methylation. Recent human studies suggest POMC DNA methylation is influenced by maternal nutrition in early pregnancy and associated with childhood and adult obesity. Studies in children propose a link between POMC DNA methylation and elevated lipids and insulin, independent of body habitus. This review brings together evidence from animal and human studies and suggests that POMC is sensitive to nutritional programming and is associated with a wide range of weight-related and metabolic outcomes.
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Abstract
Epigenetics is the study of heritable mechanisms that can modify gene activity and phenotype without modifying the genetic code. The basis for the concept of epigenetics originated more than 2,000 yr ago as a theory to explain organismal development. However, the definition of epigenetics continues to evolve as we identify more of the components that make up the epigenome and dissect the complex manner by which they regulate and are regulated by cellular functions. A substantial and growing body of research shows that nutrition plays a significant role in regulating the epigenome. Here, we critically assess this diverse body of evidence elucidating the role of nutrition in modulating the epigenome and summarize the impact such changes have on molecular and physiological outcomes with regards to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Folami Y Ideraabdullah
- Departments of Genetics and Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina; and Departments of Nutrition and Pediatrics, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina
| | - Steven H Zeisel
- Departments of Genetics and Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina; and Departments of Nutrition and Pediatrics, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina
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Kwon EJ, You YA, Park B, Ha EH, Kim HS, Park H, Kim YJ. Association between the DNA methylations of POMC, MC4R, and HNF4A and metabolic profiles in the blood of children aged 7-9 years. BMC Pediatr 2018; 18:121. [PMID: 29598821 PMCID: PMC5877386 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-018-1104-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Proopiomelanocortin (POMC), melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4A) are closely associated with weight gain and metabolic traits. In a previous study, we demonstrated associations between the methylations of POMC, MC4R, and HNF4A and metabolic profiles at birth. However, little is known about these associations in obese children. To evaluate the clinical utility of epigenetic biomarkers, we investigated to determine whether an association exists between the methylations of POMC, MC4R, and HNF4A and metabolic profiles in blood of normal weight and overweight and obese children. Methods We selected 79 normal weight children and 41 overweight and obese children aged 7–9 years in the Ewha Birth and Growth Cohort study. POMC methylation levels at exon 3, and MC4R and HNF4A methylation levels in promoter regions were measured by pyrosequencing. Serum glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL–c), and insulin levels were analyzed using a biochemical analyzer and an immunoradiometric assay. Partial correlation and multiple regression analysis were used to assess relationships between POMC, MC4R, and HNF4A methylation levels and metabolic profiles. Results Significant correlations were found between POMC methylation and HDL–c levels, and between HNF4A methylation and both TC and HDL–c levels. Interestingly, associations were found between POMC methylation status and HDL–c levels, and between HNF4A methylation status and TC levels independent of body mass index. Conclusions These findings show that POMC, MC4R, and HNF4A methylation status in the blood of children are associated with metabolic profiles. Therefore, we suggest that the DNA methylation status might serve as a potential epigenetic biomarkers of metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Jin Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea
| | - Young-Ah You
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea
| | - Bohyun Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea
| | - Eun Hee Ha
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea
| | - Hae Soon Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea
| | - Hyesook Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea.
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Womans University Medical School, Seoul, 07985, South Korea.
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Hao G, Youssef NA, Davis CL, Su S. The role of DNA methylation in the association between childhood adversity and cardiometabolic disease. Int J Cardiol 2017; 255:168-174. [PMID: 29288057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.12.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that adverse environmental stimuli, especially during sensitive periods in early life, may lead to cardiometabolic disease in later life. However, the underlying biological mechanisms remain a mystery. Recent studies inferred that epigenetic modifications are likely involved. We review recent studies, primarily focused on the findings from human studies, to indicate the role of DNA methylation in the associations between childhood adversity and cardiometabolic disease in adulthood. In particular, we focused on DNA methylation modifications in genes regulating the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis as well as the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Hao
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.
| | - Nagy A Youssef
- Department of Psychiatry & Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.
| | - Catherine L Davis
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Georgia Prevention Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.
| | - Shaoyong Su
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.
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Abstract
Obesity is a complex and multifactorial disease, which likely comprises multiple subtypes. Emerging data have linked chemical exposures to obesity. As organismal response to environmental exposures includes altered gene expression, identifying the regulatory epigenetic changes involved would be key to understanding the path from exposure to phenotype and provide new tools for exposure detection and risk assessment. In this report, we summarize published data linking early-life exposure to the heavy metals, cadmium and lead, to obesity. We also discuss potential mechanisms, as well as the need for complete coverage in epigenetic screening to fully identify alterations. The keys to understanding how metal exposure contributes to obesity are improved assessment of exposure and comprehensive establishment of epigenetic profiles that may serve as markers for exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health & the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
| | - David A Skaar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health & the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
| | - Randy L Jirtle
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health & the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA.,Department of Oncology, McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.,Department of Sport & Exercise Sciences, Institute of Sport & Physical Activity Research, University of Bedfordshire, Bedford, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health & the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
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Kwon EJ, Lee HA, You YA, Park H, Cho SJ, Ha EH, Kim YJ. DNA methylations of MC4R and HNF4α are associated with increased triglyceride levels in cord blood of preterm infants. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4590. [PMID: 27583872 PMCID: PMC5008556 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of preterm birth with obesity and metabolic syndrome later in life is well established. Although the biological mechanism for this association is poorly understood, epigenetic alterations of metabolic-related genes in early life may have important roles in metabolic dysfunction. Thus, we investigated the associations of DNA methylations of melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) with metabolic profiles in cord blood of term and preterm infants.We measured metabolic profiles in cord blood samples of 85 term and 85 preterm infants. DNA methylation and mRNA expression levels of MC4R and HNF4α in cord blood cells were quantified using pyrosequencing and real-time PCR. Triglyceride (TG) levels were grouped by percentile as low (<10th percentile), mid (11th-89th percentiles), and high (>90th percentile). A multiple linear regression model was used to assess the differential effects of DNA methylation on metabolic indices in cord blood between term and preterm infants.The beta-coefficients for associations between TG levels and methylation statuses of MC4R-CpG3 and HNF4α-CpG2 in the P1 promoter differed significantly between term and preterm infants (P = 0.04 and P = 0.003, respectively). DNA methylation statuses of MC4R-CpG3 and HNF4α-CpG2 in the P1 promoter were significantly lower in preterm infants in the high-TG group compared with those in the mid- and low-TG groups (P = 0.01). Notably, preterm infants in the high-TG group had higher TG levels in cord blood than term infants in the high-TG group (60.49 vs 54.57 mg/dL). In addition, MC4R and HNF4α expression levels were higher in preterm infants than in term infants (P < 0.05).Epigenetic alterations of the newly identified genes MC4R and HNF4α in early life might contribute to metabolic profile changes, especially increased TG levels, in the cord blood of preterm infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Jin Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
| | | | | | | | - Su Jin Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Hee Ha
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Correspondence: Young Ju Kim, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, 1071 Anyangcheon-ro, Yangcheon-ku, Seoul 158-710, Republic of Korea (e-mail: )
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19
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Lopomo A, Burgio E, Migliore L. Epigenetics of Obesity. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 140:151-84. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Xue J, Ideraabdullah FY. An assessment of molecular pathways of obesity susceptible to nutrient, toxicant and genetically induced epigenetic perturbation. J Nutr Biochem 2015; 30:1-13. [PMID: 27012616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the etiology of human disease has greatly improved with the inclusion of epigenetic mechanisms, in particular as a common link between environment and disease. However, for most diseases we lack a detailed interpretation of the epigenetic regulatory pathways perturbed by environment and causal mechanisms. Here, we focus on recent findings elucidating nutrient-related epigenetic changes linked to obesity. We highlight studies demonstrating that obesity is a complex disease linked to disruption of epigenetically regulated metabolic pathways in the brain, adipose tissue and liver. These pathways regulate (1) homeostatic and hedonic eating behaviors, (2) adipocyte differentiation and fat accumulation, and (3) energy expenditure. By compiling these data, we illustrate that obesity-related phenotypes are repeatedly linked to disruption of critical epigenetic mechanisms that regulate key metabolic genes. These data are supported by genetic mutation of key epigenetic regulators, and many of the diet-induced epigenetic mechanisms of obesity are also perturbed by exposure to environmental toxicants. Identifying similarly perturbed epigenetic mechanisms in multiple experimental models of obesity strengthens the translational applications of these findings. We also discuss many of the ongoing challenges to understanding the role of environmentally induced epigenetic pathways in obesity and suggest future studies to elucidate these roles. This assessment illustrates our current understanding of molecular pathways of obesity that are susceptible to environmental perturbation via epigenetic mechanisms. Thus, it lays the groundwork for dissecting the complex interactions between diet, genes and toxicants that contribute to obesity and obesity-related phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xue
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 500 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA
| | - Folami Y Ideraabdullah
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 500 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA; Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 120 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States; Department of Nutrition, 120 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
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Clinical applications of epigenetics in cardiovascular disease: the long road ahead. Transl Res 2015; 165:143-53. [PMID: 24768945 PMCID: PMC4190107 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2014.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes, defined as heritable changes in gene expression that occur without changes to the DNA sequence, have emerged as a promising area of cardiovascular disease research. Epigenetic information transcends that of the genotype alone and provides for an integrated etiologic picture of cardiovascular disease pathogenesis because of the interaction of the epigenome with the environment. Epigenetic biomarkers, which include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA-based mechanisms, are both modifiable and cell-type specific, which makes them not only responsive to the environment, but also an attractive target for drug development. However, the enthusiasm surrounding possible applications of cardiovascular epigenetics currently outpaces available evidence. In this review, the authors synthesize the evidence linking epigenetic changes with cardiovascular disease, emphasizing the gap between the translational potential and the clinical reality of cardiovascular epigenetics.
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Sobrino Crespo C, Perianes Cachero A, Puebla Jiménez L, Barrios V, Arilla Ferreiro E. Peptides and food intake. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:58. [PMID: 24795698 PMCID: PMC4005944 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms for controlling food intake involve mainly an interplay between gut, brain, and adipose tissue (AT), among the major organs. Parasympathetic, sympathetic, and other systems are required for communication between the brain satiety center, gut, and AT. These neuronal circuits include a variety of peptides and hormones, being ghrelin the only orexigenic molecule known, whereas the plethora of other factors are inhibitors of appetite, suggesting its physiological relevance in the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis. Nutrients generated by food digestion have been proposed to activate G-protein-coupled receptors on the luminal side of enteroendocrine cells, e.g., the L-cells. This stimulates the release of gut hormones into the circulation such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), oxyntomodulin, pancreatic polypeptides, peptide tyrosine tyrosine, and cholecystokinin, which inhibit appetite. Ghrelin is a peptide secreted from the stomach and, in contrast to other gut hormones, plasma levels decrease after a meal and potently stimulate food intake. Other circulating factors such as insulin and leptin relay information regarding long-term energy stores. Both hormones circulate at proportional levels to body fat content, enter the CNS proportionally to their plasma levels, and reduce food intake. Circulating hormones can influence the activity of the arcuate nucleus (ARC) neurons of the hypothalamus, after passing across the median eminence. Circulating factors such as gut hormones may also influence the nucleus of the tractus solitarius (NTS) through the adjacent circumventricular organ. On the other hand, gastrointestinal vagal afferents converge in the NTS of the brainstem. Neural projections from the NTS, in turn, carry signals to the hypothalamus. The ARC acts as an integrative center, with two major subpopulations of neurons influencing appetite, one of them coexpressing neuropeptide Y and agouti-related protein (AgRP) that increases food intake, whereas the other subpopulation coexpresses pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript that inhibits food intake. AgRP antagonizes the effects of the POMC product, α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Both populations project to areas important in the regulation of food intake, including the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, which also receives important inputs from other hypothalamic nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Sobrino Crespo
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Perianes Cachero
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Lilian Puebla Jiménez
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Vicente Barrios
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Arilla Ferreiro
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- *Correspondence: Eduardo Arilla Ferreiro, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid E-28871, Spain e-mail:
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