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Aronica TS, Carella M, Balistreri CR. Different Levels of Therapeutic Strategies to Recover the Microbiome to Prevent/Delay Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) or Arrest Its Progression in Children. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3928. [PMID: 38612738 PMCID: PMC11012256 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073928] [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] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Changes in the components, variety, metabolism, and products of microbiomes, particularly of the gut microbiome (GM), have been revealed to be closely associated with the onset and progression of numerous human illnesses, including hematological neoplasms. Among the latter pathologies, there is acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most widespread malignant neoplasm in pediatric subjects. Accordingly, ALL cases present a typical dysfunctional GM during all its clinical stages and resulting inflammation, which contributes to its progression, altered response to therapy, and possible relapses. Children with ALL have GM with characteristic variations in composition, variety, and functions, and such alterations may influence and predict the complications and prognosis of ALL after chemotherapy treatment or stem cell hematopoietic transplants. In addition, growing evidence also reports the ability of GM to influence the formation, growth, and roles of the newborn's hematopoietic system through the process of developmental programming during fetal life as well as its susceptibility to the onset of onco-hematological pathologies, namely ALL. Here, we suggest some therapeutic strategies that can be applied at two levels of intervention to recover the microbiome and consequently prevent/delay ALL or arrest its progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Silvano Aronica
- Complex Operative Unit of Clinical Pathology, ARNAS Civico Di Cristina e Benfratelli Hospitals, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (T.S.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Miriam Carella
- Complex Operative Unit of Clinical Pathology, ARNAS Civico Di Cristina e Benfratelli Hospitals, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (T.S.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Carmela Rita Balistreri
- Cellular, Molecular and Clinical Pathological Laboratory, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
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Brink K, Thomas CL, Jones A, Chan TW, Mallon EB. Exploring the ageing methylome in the model insect, Nasonia vitripennis. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:305. [PMID: 38519892 PMCID: PMC10958858 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10211-7] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ageing process is a multifaceted phenomenon marked by the gradual deterioration of cellular and organismal functions, accompanied by an elevated susceptibility to diseases. The intricate interplay between genetic and environmental factors complicates research, particularly in complex mammalian models. In this context, simple invertebrate organisms have been pivotal, but the current models lack detectable DNA methylation limiting the exploration of this critical epigenetic ageing mechanism. This study introduces Nasonia vitripennis, the jewel wasp, as an innovative invertebrate model for investigating the epigenetics of ageing. Leveraging its advantages as a model organism and possessing a functional DNA methylation system, Nasonia emerges as a valuable addition to ageing research. RESULTS Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing unveiled dynamic alterations in DNA methylation, with differentially methylated CpGs between distinct time points in both male and female wasps. These changes were associated with numerous genes, enriching for functions related to telomere maintenance, histone methylation, and mRNA catabolic processes. Additionally, other CpGs were found to be variably methylated at each timepoint. Sex-specific effects on epigenetic entropy were observed, indicating differential patterns in the loss of epigenetic stability over time. Constructing an epigenetic clock containing 19 CpGs revealed a robust correlation between epigenetic age and chronological age. CONCLUSIONS Nasonia vitripennis emerges as a promising model for investigating the epigenetics of ageing, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of DNA methylation and their implications for age-related processes. This research not only expands the repertoire of ageing models but also opens avenues for deeper exploration of epigenetic mechanisms in the context of ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Brink
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, UK
| | - C L Thomas
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, UK
| | - A Jones
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Muenster, Huefferstrabe, Muenster, Germany
| | - T W Chan
- School of Life Sciences, Gibbet Hill Campus, The University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - E B Mallon
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, UK.
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Saeed H, Wu J, Tesfaye M, Grantz KL, Tekola-Ayele F. Placental accelerated aging in antenatal depression. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2024; 6:101237. [PMID: 38012987 PMCID: PMC10843762 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2023.101237] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antenatal maternal depression is associated with poor pregnancy outcomes and long-term effects on the offspring. Previous studies have identified links between antenatal depression and placental DNA methylation and between placental epigenetic aging and poor pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm labor and preeclampsia. The relationship between antenatal depression and poor pregnancy outcomes may be partly mediated via placental aging. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate whether antenatal depressive symptoms are associated with placental epigenetic age acceleration, an epigenetic aging clock measure derived from the difference between methylation age and gestational age at delivery. STUDY DESIGN The study included 301 women who provided placenta samples at delivery as part of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Fetal Growth Studies - Singletons that recruited participants from diverse race and ethnic groups at 12 US clinical sites (2009-2013). Women underwent depression screening using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale up to 6 times across the 3 trimesters of pregnancy. Depressive symptoms status was determined for each pregnancy trimester using an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score, in which a score of ≥10 was defined as having depressive symptoms and a score of <10 was defined as not having depressive symptoms. Placental DNA methylation was profiled from placenta samples. Placental epigenetic age was estimated using a methylation-based age estimator (placental "epigenetic clock") that has previously been found to have high placental gestational age prediction accuracy for uncomplicated term pregnancies. Placental age acceleration was defined to be the residual upon regressing the estimated epigenetic age on gestational age at delivery. Associations between an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of ≥10 and an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of <10 in the first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy (ie, depressive symptoms vs none in each trimester) and placental age acceleration were tested using multivariable linear regression adjusting for maternal age, parity, race and ethnicity, and employment. RESULTS There were 31 (10.3%), 48 (16%), and 49 (16.4%) women with depressive symptoms (ie, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of ≥10) in the first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. Of these women, 21 (7.2%) had sustained first- and second-trimester depressive symptoms, 19 (7%) had sustained second- and third-trimester depressive symptoms, and 12 (4.8%) had sustained depressive symptoms throughout pregnancy. Women with depressive symptoms in the second trimester of pregnancy had 0.41 weeks higher placental age acceleration than women without depressive symptoms during the second trimester of pregnancy (β=0.21 weeks [95% confidence interval, -0.17 to 0.58; P=.28] during the first trimester of pregnancy; β=0.41 weeks [95% confidence interval, 0.10-0.71; P=.009] during the second trimester of pregnancy; β=0.17 weeks [95% confidence interval, -0.14 to 0.47; P=.29] during the third trimester of pregnancy). Sustained first- and second-trimester depressive symptoms were associated with 0.72 weeks higher placental age acceleration (95% confidence interval, 0.29-1.15; P=.001) than no depressive symptom in the 2 trimesters. The association between second-trimester depressive symptoms and higher placental epigenetic age acceleration strengthened in the analysis of pregnancies with male fetuses (β=0.53 weeks; 95% confidence interval, 0.06-1.08; P=.03) but was not significant in pregnancies with female fetuses. CONCLUSION Antenatal depressive symptoms during the second trimester of pregnancy were associated with an average of 0.41 weeks of increased placental age acceleration. Accelerated placental aging may play an important role in the underlying mechanism linking antenatal depression to pregnancy complications related to placental dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Saeed
- National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (Dr Saeed); Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Medstar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC (Drs Saeed)
| | - Jing Wu
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (Drs Wu, Grantz, and Tekola-Ayele)
| | - Markos Tesfaye
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway (Dr Tesfaye); Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Dr Tesfaye)
| | - Katherine L Grantz
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (Drs Wu, Grantz, and Tekola-Ayele)
| | - Fasil Tekola-Ayele
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (Drs Wu, Grantz, and Tekola-Ayele).
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4
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Stöger R, Choi M, Begum K, Leeman G, Emes RD, Melamed P, Bentley GR. Childhood environment influences epigenetic age and methylation concordance of a CpG clock locus in British-Bangladeshi migrants. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2153511. [PMID: 36495138 PMCID: PMC9980690 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2022.2153511] [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] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Migration from one location to another often comes with a change in environmental conditions. Here, we analysed features of DNA methylation in young, adult British-Bangladeshi women who experienced different environments during their childhoods: a) migrants, who grew up in Bangladesh with exposure to comparatively higher pathogen loads and poorer health care, and b) second-generation British-Bangladeshis, born to Bangladeshi parents, who grew up in the UK. We used buccal DNA to estimate DNA methylation-based age (DNAm age) from 14 migrants and 11 second-generation migrants, aged 18-35 years. 'AgeAccel,' a measure of DNAm age, independent of chronological age, showed that the group of women who spent their childhood in Bangladesh had higher AgeAccel (P = 0.028), compared to their UK peers. Since epigenetic clocks have been proposed to be associated with maintenance processes of epigenetic systems, we evaluated the preference for concordant DNA methylation at the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR/LHR) locus, which harbours one of the CpGs contributing to Horvath's epigenetic clock. Measurements on both strands of individual, double-stranded DNA molecules indicate higher stability of DNA methylation states at this LHCGR/LHR locus in samples of women who grew up in Bangladesh. Together, our two independent analytical approaches imply that childhood environments may induce subtle changes that are detectable long after exposure occurred, which might reflect altered activity of the epigenetic maintenance system or a difference in the proportion of cell types in buccal tissue. This exploratory work supports our earlier findings that adverse childhood environments lead to phenotypic life history trade-offs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinhard Stöger
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Minseung Choi
- School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Gregory Leeman
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Richard D Emes
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Advanced Data Analysis Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Philippa Melamed
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gillian R Bentley
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, UK.,Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Durham University, Durham, UK
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5
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Etzel L, Garrett-Petters P, Shalev I. Early origins of health and disease risk: The case for investigating adverse exposures and biological aging in utero, across childhood, and into adolescence. CHILD DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVES 2023; 17:149-156. [PMID: 38706692 PMCID: PMC11068077 DOI: 10.1111/cdep.12488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
In this article, we suggest that aging and development are two sides of the same coin, and that developing a comprehensive understanding of health and disease risk requires examining age-related processes occurring throughout the earliest years of life. Compared to other periods in life, during this early period of acute vulnerability, when children's biological and regulatory systems are developing, biological aging occurs most rapidly. We review theory and empirical research suggesting that processes of development and aging are intricately linked, and that early adversity may program biological parameters for accelerated aging and disease risk early in life, even though clinical signs of age-related disease onset may not be evident until many years later. Following from this, we make the case for widespread incorporation of biological aging constructs into child development research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Etzel
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | | | - Idan Shalev
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Vasileva D, Greenwood CMT, Daley D. A Review of the Epigenetic Clock: Emerging Biomarkers for Asthma and Allergic Disease. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1724. [PMID: 37761864 PMCID: PMC10531327 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091724] [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] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation (DNAm) is a dynamic, age-dependent epigenetic modification that can be used to study interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Environmental exposures during critical periods of growth and development may alter DNAm patterns, leading to increased susceptibility to diseases such as asthma and allergies. One method to study the role of DNAm is the epigenetic clock-an algorithm that uses DNAm levels at select age-informative Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine (CpG) dinucleotides to predict epigenetic age (EA). The difference between EA and calendar age (CA) is termed epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) and reveals information about the biological capacity of an individual. Associations between EAA and disease susceptibility have been demonstrated for a variety of age-related conditions and, more recently, phenotypes such as asthma and allergic diseases, which often begin in childhood and progress throughout the lifespan. In this review, we explore different epigenetic clocks and how they have been applied, particularly as related to childhood asthma. We delve into how in utero and early life exposures (e.g., smoking, air pollution, maternal BMI) result in methylation changes. Furthermore, we explore the potential for EAA to be used as a biomarker for asthma and allergic diseases and identify areas for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denitsa Vasileva
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia and Saint Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada;
| | - Celia M. T. Greenwood
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada;
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Denise Daley
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia and Saint Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada;
- Department of Medicine, Respiratory Division, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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7
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Quinn EB, Hsiao CJ, Maisha FM, Mulligan CJ. Low birthweight is associated with epigenetic age acceleration in the first 3 years of life. Evol Med Public Health 2023; 11:251-261. [PMID: 37485054 PMCID: PMC10360162 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoad019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease hypothesis posits that early life adversity is associated with poor adult health outcomes. Epidemiological evidence has supported this framework by linking low birthweight with adult health and mortality, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Accelerated epigenetic aging may be a pathway to connect early life experiences with adult health outcomes, based on associations of accelerated epigenetic aging with increased morbidity and mortality. Methodology Sixty-seven mother-infant dyads were recruited in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Birthweight data were collected at birth, and blood samples were collected at birth and follow-up visits up to age 3. DNA methylation data were generated with the Illumina MethylationEPIC array and used to estimate epigenetic age. A multilevel model was used to test for associations between birthweight and epigenetic age acceleration. Results Chronological age was highly correlated with epigenetic age from birth to age 3 (r = 0.95, p < 2.2 × 10-16). Variation in epigenetic age acceleration increased over time. Birthweight, dichotomized around 2500 g, predicted epigenetic age acceleration over the first 3 years of life (b = -0.39, p = 0.005). Conclusions and implications Our longitudinal analysis provides the first evidence for accelerated epigenetic aging that emerges between birth and age 3 and associates with low birthweight. These results suggest that early life experiences, such as low birthweight, may shape the trajectory of epigenetic aging in early childhood. Furthermore, accelerated epigenetic aging may be a pathway that links low birthweight and poor adult health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward B Quinn
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Chu J Hsiao
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Felicien M Maisha
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- HEAL Africa Hospital, Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Maisha Institute, Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Connie J Mulligan
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
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8
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Aging Hallmarks and the Role of Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030651. [PMID: 36978899 PMCID: PMC10044767 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is a complex biological process accompanied by a progressive decline in the physical function of the organism and an increased risk of age-related chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have established that there exist nine hallmarks of the aging process, including (i) telomere shortening, (ii) genomic instability, (iii) epigenetic modifications, (iv) mitochondrial dysfunction, (v) loss of proteostasis, (vi) dysregulated nutrient sensing, (vii) stem cell exhaustion, (viii) cellular senescence, and (ix) altered cellular communication. All these alterations have been linked to sustained systemic inflammation, and these mechanisms contribute to the aging process in timing not clearly determined yet. Nevertheless, mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the most important mechanisms contributing to the aging process. Mitochondria is the primary endogenous source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). During the aging process, there is a decline in ATP production and elevated ROS production together with a decline in the antioxidant defense. Elevated ROS levels can cause oxidative stress and severe damage to the cell, organelle membranes, DNA, lipids, and proteins. This damage contributes to the aging phenotype. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the mechanisms of aging with an emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production.
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9
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Dye CK, Wu H, Monk C, Belsky DW, Alschuler D, Lee S, O’Donnell K, Scorza P. Mother's childhood adversity is associated with accelerated epigenetic aging in pregnancy and in male newborns. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.02.530806. [PMID: 36945654 PMCID: PMC10028804 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.02.530806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Background Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are correlated with accelerated epigenetic aging, but it is not clear whether altered epigenetic aging from childhood adversities persists into adulthood and can be transmitted to the next generation. Thus, we tested whether mothers' childhood adversity is associated with accelerated epigenetic aging during pregnancy and in their newborn offspring. Methods Data were from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) sub-study, Accessible Resource for Integrated Epigenomic Studies (ARIES). Women provided retrospective self-reports during pregnancy of ACE exposure. DNA methylation was measured in mothers during pregnancy and cord blood at birth. Estimates of epigenetic age acceleration were calculated using Principal Components of Horvath, Hannum skin & blood, GrimAge, PhenoAge, and DunedinPACE epigenetic clocks for mothers; and the Knight and Bohlin cord blood clocks for newborns. Associations between a cumulative maternal ACE score and epigenetic age acceleration were estimated using linear regression models, adjusting for maternal age at pregnancy, smoking during pregnancy, education, and pre-pregnancy BMI. Models for offspring were stratified by sex and additionally adjusted for gestation age. Results Mothers' total ACE score was positively associated with accelerated maternal PhenoAge and GrimAge. In newborn offspring, mothers' total ACE score was positively associated with accelerated epigenetic aging in males using the Bohlin clock, but not in females using either epigenetic clock. We found male offsprings' epigenetic age was accelerated in those born to mothers exposed to neglect using the Knight clock; and parental substance abuse using the Bohlin clock. Conclusion Our results show that mothers' ACE exposure is associated with DNAm age acceleration in male offspring, supporting the notion that DNAm age could be a marker of intergenerational biological embedding of mothers' childhood adversity. This is consistent with findings on vulnerability of male fetuses to environmental insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian K. Dye
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Haotian Wu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Catherine Monk
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Behavioral Medicine, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel W. Belsky
- Department of Epidemiology & Butler Columbia Aging Center, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Alschuler
- Division of Behavioral Medicine, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Seonjoo Lee
- Division of Behavioral Medicine, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kieran O’Donnell
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Pamela Scorza
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Mc Auley MT. DNA methylation in genes associated with the evolution of ageing and disease: A critical review. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 72:101488. [PMID: 34662746 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ageing is characterised by a physical decline in biological functioning which results in a progressive risk of mortality with time. As a biological phenomenon, it is underpinned by the dysregulation of a myriad of complex processes. Recently, however, ever-increasing evidence has associated epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation (DNAm) with age-onset pathologies, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease. These diseases compromise healthspan. Consequently, there is a medical imperative to understand the link between epigenetic ageing, and healthspan. Evolutionary theory provides a unique way to gain new insights into epigenetic ageing and health. This review will: (1) provide a brief overview of the main evolutionary theories of ageing; (2) discuss recent genetic evidence which has revealed alleles that have pleiotropic effects on fitness at different ages in humans; (3) consider the effects of DNAm on pleiotropic alleles, which are associated with age related disease; (4) discuss how age related DNAm changes resonate with the mutation accumulation, disposable soma and programmed theories of ageing; (5) discuss how DNAm changes associated with caloric restriction intersect with the evolution of ageing; and (6) conclude by discussing how evolutionary theory can be used to inform investigations which quantify age-related DNAm changes which are linked to age onset pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Tomás Mc Auley
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Chester, Exton Park, Chester CH1 4BJ, UK.
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11
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Vaiserman A, Lushchak O. Prenatal famine exposure and adult health outcomes: an epigenetic link. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2021; 7:dvab013. [PMID: 34881050 PMCID: PMC8648067 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Numerous human chronic pathological conditions depend on epigenetic modifications induced by environmental triggers throughout sensitive stages early in development. Developmental malnutrition is regarded as one of the most important risk factors in these processes. We present an overview of studies that the initiation and progression of many diseases are largely dependent on persisting epigenetic dysregulation caused by environmental insults early in life. For particular disorders, candidate genes were identified that underlie these associations. The current study assessed the most convincing evidence for the epigenetic link between developmental malnutrition and adult-life disease in the human population. These findings were obtained from quasi-experimental studies (so-called 'natural experiments'), i.e. naturally occurring environmental conditions in which certain subsets of the population have differing levels of exposure to a supposed causal factor. Most of this evidence was derived on the DNA methylation level. We discussed DNA methylation as a key player in epigenetic modifications that can be inherited through multiple cell divisions. In this Perspective article, an overview of the quasi-experimental epidemiological evidence for the role of epigenetic mechanisms in the developmental programming by early-life undernutrition is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Vaiserman
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, D.F. Chebotarev Institute of Gerontology, NAMS, 67 Vyshgorodska St., Kyiv 04114, Ukraine
| | - Oleh Lushchak
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, 57 Shevchenka St., Ivano-Frankivsk 76018, Ukraine
- Research and Development University, 13A Shota Rustaveli St., Ivano-Frankivsk 76000, Ukraine
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12
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Vaiserman A, Lushchak O. DNA methylation changes induced by prenatal toxic metal exposure: An overview of epidemiological evidence. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2021; 7:dvab007. [PMID: 34631153 PMCID: PMC8493661 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that exposure to unfavorable conditions early in life can substantially contribute to the risk of chronic disorders later in life ('developmental programming' phenomenon). The mechanistic basis for this phenomenon remains poorly understood so far, although epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNA-mediated gene regulation apparently play a crucial role. The key role of epigenetic modifications triggered by unfavorable environmental cues during sensitive developmental periods in linking adverse early-life events to later-life health outcomes is evident from a large body of studies, including methylome-wide association studies and research of candidate genes. Toxic metals (TMs), such as heavy metals, including lead, chromium, cadmium, arsenic, mercury, etc., are among environmental contaminants currently most significantly impacting human health status. Since TMs can cross the placental barrier and accumulate in fetal tissues, exposure to high doses of these xenobiotics early in development is considered to be among important factors contributing to the developmental programming of adult-life diseases in modern societies. In this mini-review, we summarize epidemiological findings indicating that prenatal TM exposure can induce epigenetic dysregulation, thereby potentially affecting adult health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Vaiserman
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, D.F. Chebotarev Institute of Gerontology, NAMS, 67 Vyshgorodska str., Kyiv 04114, Ukraine
| | - Oleh Lushchak
- *Correspondence address. Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, 57 Shevchenka str., Ivano-Frankivsk 76018, Ukraine. Tel/Fax: +38 0342 71 46 83; E-mail:
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13
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Checknita D, Tiihonen J, Hodgins S, Nilsson KW. Associations of age, sex, sexual abuse, and genotype with monoamine oxidase a gene methylation. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2021; 128:1721-1739. [PMID: 34424394 PMCID: PMC8536631 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-021-02403-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Epigenome-wide studies report higher methylation among women than men with decreasing levels with age. Little is known about associations of sex and age with methylation of monoamine oxidase A (MAOA). Methylation of the first exonic and partial first intronic region of MAOA has been shown to strengthen associations of interactions of MAOA-uVNTR genotypes and adversity with aggression and substance misuse. Our study examined associations of sex and age with MAOA first exon and intron methylation levels in 252 women and 157 men aged 14–73 years. Participants included adolescents recruited at a substance misuse clinic, their siblings and parents, and healthy women. Women showed ~ 50% higher levels of exonic, and ~ 15% higher intronic, methylation than men. Methylation levels were similar between younger (M = 22.7 years) and older (M = 46.1 years) participants, and stable across age. Age modified few associations of methylation levels with sex. MAOA genotypes modified few associations of methylation with sex and age. Higher methylation levels among women were not explained by genotype, nor interaction of genotype and sexual abuse. Findings were similar after adjusting for lifetime diagnoses of substance dependence (women = 24.3%; men = 34.2%). Methylation levels were higher among women who experienced sexual abuse than women who did not. Results extend on prior studies by showing that women display higher levels of methylation than men within first intronic/exonic regions of MAOA, which did not decrease with age in either sex. Findings were not conditioned by genotype nor interactions of genotype and trauma, and indicate X-chromosome inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Checknita
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Psychiatry Building R5:00 c/o Jari Tiihonen, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Centre for Clinical Research, Västmanland County Council, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Jari Tiihonen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Psychiatry Building R5:00 c/o Jari Tiihonen, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.,Center for Psychiatry Research, Stockholm City Council, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sheilagh Hodgins
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Psychiatry Building R5:00 c/o Jari Tiihonen, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.,Département de Psychiatrie et Addictologie, Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kent W Nilsson
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Centre for Clinical Research, Västmanland County Council, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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14
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The Impact of Stress Within and Across Generations: Neuroscientific and Epigenetic Considerations. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2021; 29:303-317. [PMID: 34049337 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The impact of stress and trauma on biological systems in humans can be substantial. They can result in epigenetic changes, accelerated brain development and sexual maturation, and predisposition to psychopathology. Such modifications may be accompanied by behavioral, emotional, and cognitive overtones during one's lifetime. Exposure during sensitive periods of neural development may lead to long-lasting effects that may not be affected by subsequent environmental interventions. The cumulative effects of life stressors in an individual may affect offspring's methylome makeup and epigenetic clocks, neurohormonal modulation and stress reactivity, and physiological and reproductive development. While offspring may suffer deleterious effects from parental stress and their own early-life adversity, these factors may also confer traits that prove beneficial and enhance fitness to their own environment. This article synthesizes the data on how stress shapes biological and behavioral dimensions, drawing from preclinical and human models. Advances in this field of knowledge should potentially allow for an improved understanding of how interventions may be increasingly tailored according to individual biomarkers and developmental history.
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15
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Pasyukova EG, Symonenko AV, Rybina OY, Vaiserman AM. Epigenetic enzymes: A role in aging and prospects for pharmacological targeting. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 67:101312. [PMID: 33657446 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of interventions aimed at improving healthspan is one of the priority tasks for the academic and public health authorities. It is also the main objective of a novel branch in biogerontological research, geroscience. According to the geroscience concept, targeting aging is an effective way to combat age-related disorders. Since aging is an exceptionally complex process, system-oriented integrated approaches seem most appropriate for such an interventional strategy. Given the high plasticity and adaptability of the epigenome, epigenome-targeted interventions appear highly promising in geroscience research. Pharmaceuticals targeted at mechanisms involved in epigenetic control of gene activity are actively developed and implemented to prevent and treat various aging-related conditions such as cardiometabolic, neurodegenerative, inflammatory disorders, and cancer. In this review, we describe the roles of epigenetic mechanisms in aging; characterize enzymes contributing to the regulation of epigenetic processes; particularly focus on epigenetic drugs, such as inhibitors of DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases that may potentially affect aging-associated diseases and longevity; and discuss possible caveats associated with the use of epigenetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena G Pasyukova
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 2, Moscow, 123182, Russia
| | - Alexander V Symonenko
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 2, Moscow, 123182, Russia
| | - Olga Y Rybina
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 2, Moscow, 123182, Russia; Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Moscow Pedagogical State University», M. Pirogovskaya Str. 1/1, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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16
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Dieckmann L, Lahti-Pulkkinen M, Kvist T, Lahti J, DeWitt PE, Cruceanu C, Laivuori H, Sammallahti S, Villa PM, Suomalainen-König S, Eriksson JG, Kajantie E, Raikkönen K, Binder EB, Czamara D. Characteristics of epigenetic aging across gestational and perinatal tissues. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:97. [PMID: 33926514 PMCID: PMC8082803 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01080-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epigenetic clocks have been used to indicate differences in biological states between individuals of same chronological age. However, so far, only few studies have examined epigenetic aging in newborns—especially regarding different gestational or perinatal tissues. In this study, we investigated which birth- and pregnancy-related variables are most important in predicting gestational epigenetic age acceleration or deceleration (i.e., the deviation between gestational epigenetic age estimated from the DNA methylome and chronological gestational age) in chorionic villus, placenta and cord blood tissues from two independent study cohorts (ITU, n = 639 and PREDO, n = 966). We further characterized the correspondence of epigenetic age deviations between these tissues. Results Among the most predictive factors of epigenetic age deviations in single tissues were child sex, birth length, maternal smoking during pregnancy, maternal mental disorders until childbirth, delivery mode and parity. However, the specific factors related to epigenetic age deviation and the direction of association differed across tissues. In individuals with samples available from more than one tissue, relative epigenetic age deviations were not correlated across tissues. Conclusion Gestational epigenetic age acceleration or deceleration was not related to more favorable or unfavorable factors in one direction in the investigated tissues, and the relative epigenetic age differed between tissues of the same person. This indicates that epigenetic age deviations associate with distinct, tissue specific, factors during the gestational and perinatal period. Our findings suggest that the epigenetic age of the newborn should be seen as a characteristic of a specific tissue, and less as a general characteristic of the child itself. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13148-021-01080-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Dieckmann
- Department of Translational Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, München, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry, München, Germany
| | - Marius Lahti-Pulkkinen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tuomas Kvist
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Lahti
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Peter E DeWitt
- Section of Informatics and Data Science, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Cristiana Cruceanu
- Department of Translational Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, München, Germany
| | - Hannele Laivuori
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Human Genetics, Helsinki, Finland.,Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University Hospital and Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sara Sammallahti
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erasmus MC, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pia M Villa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University Hospital and Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Hyvinkää Hospital, Helsinki and Uusimaa Hospital District, Hyvinkää, Finland
| | - Sanna Suomalainen-König
- Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johan G Eriksson
- Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Human Potential Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eero Kajantie
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine, PEDEGO Research Unit, MRC Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Katri Raikkönen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisabeth B Binder
- Department of Translational Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, München, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Darina Czamara
- Department of Translational Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, München, Germany.
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17
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Larocca D, Lee J, West MD, Labat I, Sternberg H. No Time to Age: Uncoupling Aging from Chronological Time. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:611. [PMID: 33919082 PMCID: PMC8143125 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicellular life evolved from simple unicellular organisms that could replicate indefinitely, being essentially ageless. At this point, life split into two fundamentally different cell types: the immortal germline representing an unbroken lineage of cell division with no intrinsic endpoint and the mortal soma, which ages and dies. In this review, we describe the germline as clock-free and the soma as clock-bound and discuss aging with respect to three DNA-based cellular clocks (telomeric, DNA methylation, and transposable element). The ticking of these clocks corresponds to the stepwise progressive limitation of growth and regeneration of somatic cells that we term somatic restriction. Somatic restriction acts in opposition to strategies that ensure continued germline replication and regeneration. We thus consider the plasticity of aging as a process not fixed to the pace of chronological time but one that can speed up or slow down depending on the rate of intrinsic cellular clocks. We further describe how germline factor reprogramming might be used to slow the rate of aging and potentially reverse it by causing the clocks to tick backward. Therefore, reprogramming may eventually lead to therapeutic strategies to treat degenerative diseases by altering aging itself, the one condition common to us all.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jieun Lee
- AgeX Therapeutics Inc., Alameda, CA 94501, USA; (J.L.); (M.D.W.); (I.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Michael D. West
- AgeX Therapeutics Inc., Alameda, CA 94501, USA; (J.L.); (M.D.W.); (I.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Ivan Labat
- AgeX Therapeutics Inc., Alameda, CA 94501, USA; (J.L.); (M.D.W.); (I.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Hal Sternberg
- AgeX Therapeutics Inc., Alameda, CA 94501, USA; (J.L.); (M.D.W.); (I.L.); (H.S.)
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18
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Allegra A, Giarratana RM, Scola L, Balistreri CR. The close link between the fetal programming imprinting and neurodegeneration in adulthood: The key role of "hemogenic endothelium" programming. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 195:111461. [PMID: 33600833 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The research on neurodegenerative diseases (NeuroDegD) has been traditionally focused on later life stages. There is now an increasing evidence, that they may be programmed during early development. Here, we propose that NeuroDegD are the result of the complex process of imprinting on fetal hemogenic endothelium, from which the microglial cells make to origin. The central role of placenta and epigenetic mechanisms (methylation of DNA, histone modifications and regulation by non-coding RNAs) in mediating the short and long-term effects has been also described. Precisely, it reports their role in impacting plasticity and memory of microglial cells. In addition, we also underline the necessity of further studies for clearing all mechanisms involved and developing epigenetic methods for identifying potential targets as biomarkers, and for developing preventive measures. Such biomarkers might be used to identify individuals at risk to NeuroDegD. Finally, the sex dependence of fetal programming process has been discussed. It might justify the sex differences in the epidemiologic, imaging, biomarkers, and pathology studies of these pathologies. The discovery of related mechanisms might have important clinical implications in both the etiology of disorders and the management of pregnant women for encouraging healthy long-term outcomes for their children, and future generations. Impending research on the mechanisms related to transgenerational transmission of prenatal stress might consent the development and application of therapies and/or intervention strategies for these disorders in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosa Maria Giarratana
- Department of BioMedicine, Neuroscience, and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Letizia Scola
- Department of BioMedicine, Neuroscience, and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Carmela Rita Balistreri
- Department of BioMedicine, Neuroscience, and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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19
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Selman M, Pardo A. When things go wrong: exploring possible mechanisms driving the progressive fibrosis phenotype in interstitial lung diseases. Eur Respir J 2021; 58:13993003.04507-2020. [PMID: 33542060 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.04507-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) comprise a large and heterogeneous group of disorders of known and unknown aetiology characterised by diffuse damage of the lung parenchyma. In recent years it has become evident that patients with different types of ILD are at risk of developing progressive pulmonary fibrosis, known as progressive fibrosing ILD (PF-ILD). This is a phenotype that behaves similar to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the archetypical example of progressive fibrosis. PF-ILD is not a distinct clinical entity but describes a group of ILDs with similar clinical behaviour. This phenotype may occur in diseases displaying distinct aetiologies and different biopathology during their initiation and development. Importantly, these entities may have the potential for improvement or stabilisation prior to entering the progressive fibrosing phase. The crucial questions are: 1) why does a subset of patients develop a progressive and irreversible fibrotic phenotype even with appropriate treatment? and 2) what are the possible pathogenic mechanisms driving progression? Here, we provide a framework highlighting putative mechanisms underlying progression, including genetic susceptibility, ageing, epigenetics, structural fibrotic distortion, aberrant composition and stiffness of the extracellular matrix, and the emergence of distinct pro-fibrotic cell subsets. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind PF-ILD will provide the basis for identifying risk factors and appropriate therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moisés Selman
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosío Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Annie Pardo
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
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20
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The Association between Early-Life Gut Microbiota and Long-Term Health and Diseases. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030459. [PMID: 33504109 PMCID: PMC7865818 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Early life gut microbiota have been increasingly recognized as major contributors to short and/or long-term human health and diseases. Numerous studies have demonstrated that human gut microbial colonization begins at birth, but continues to develop a succession of taxonomic abundances for two to three years until the gut microbiota reaches adult-like diversity and proportions. Several factors, including gestational age (GA), delivery mode, birth weight, feeding types, antibiotic exposure, maternal microbiome, and diet, influence the diversity, abundance, and function of early life gut microbiota. Gut microbial life is essential for assisting with the digestion of food substances to release nutrients, exerting control over pathogens, stimulating or modulating the immune system, and influencing many systems such as the liver, brain, and endocrine system. Microbial metabolites play multiple roles in these interactions. Furthermore, studies provide evidence supporting that imbalances of the gut microbiota in early life, referred to as dysbiosis, are associated with specific childhood or adult disease outcomes, such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, diabetes, allergic diseases, obesity, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and neurological disorders. These findings support that the human gut microbiota may play a fundamental role in the risk of acquiring diseases that may be programmed during early life. In fact, it is critical to explore the role of the human gut microbiota in early life.
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21
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DNA methylation perturbations may link altered development and aging in the lung. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:1742-1764. [PMID: 33468710 PMCID: PMC7880367 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fetal perturbations in DNA methylation during lung development may reveal insights into the enduring impacts on adult lung health and disease during aging that have not been explored altogether before. We studied the association between genome-wide DNA-methylation and post-conception age in fetal-lung (n=78, 42 exposed to in-utero-smoke (IUS)) tissue and chronological age in adult-lung tissue (n=160, 114 with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) using multi-variate linear regression models with covariate adjustment and tested for effect modification by phenotypes. Overlapping age-associations were evaluated for functional and tissue-specific enrichment using the Genotype-Tissue-Expression (GTEx) project. We identified 244 age-associated differentially methylated positions and 878 regions overlapping between fetal and adult-lung tissues. Hyper-methylated CpGs (96%) were enriched in transcription factor activity (FDR adjusted P=2x10-33) and implicated in developmental processes including embryonic organ morphogenesis, neurogenesis and growth delay. Hypo-methylated CpGs (2%) were enriched in oxido-reductase activity and VEGFA-VEGFR2 Signaling. Twenty-one age-by-sex and eleven age-by-pack-years interactions were statistically significant (FDR<0.05) in adult-lung tissue. DNA methylation in transcription factors during development in fetal lung recapitulates in adult-lung tissue with aging. These findings reveal molecular mechanisms and pathways that may link disrupted development in early-life and age-associated lung diseases.
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22
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Lee HS, Park T. The influences of DNA methylation and epigenetic clocks, on metabolic disease, in middle-aged Koreans. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:148. [PMID: 33059731 PMCID: PMC7558749 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00936-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Considering that DNA methylation (DNAm) profiles are, in large part, modifiable by lifestyle and environmental influences, it has been proposed that epigenetic clocks provide a better estimate of biological age than chronological age, as associated with current health status. Even though metabolic diseases induce precocious aging, little is known about associations between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and DNA methylation clocks, and stochastic epigenetic mutations (SEMs), in a Korean population. Therefore, we assessed four different epigenetic clocks (Pan-tissue, Hannum, PhenoAge, and GrimAge), and their accelerations, on MetS and MetS-related lifestyle factors, in Koreans. We measured genome-wide DNA methylation (485,512 CpGs), using an Illumina 450 methylation BeadChip array, with data from 349 blood samples. Results DNAm GrimAge strongly correlated with chronological age (r = 0.77, p < 0.001) compared to the other three epigenetic clocks and SEMs. DNAm-based surrogate markers, with regard to MetS, including the gene encoding plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI1), also correlated with chronological age. Within cohorts stratified by age group, sex, regional area, smoking, and alcohol drinking, a positive correlation was observed between DNAm GrimAge and chronological age (0.43 ≤ r ≤ 0.78). In particular, we identified MetS to associate with accelerated GrimAge, and age-adjusted PAI1, in the middle-age group. Accerelated GrimAge also associated with risk of MetS in the middle-age group (odds ratio = 1.16, p = 0.046), which appears to mediate their associations with fasting glucose. Multiple linear regression showed that DNAm GrimAge, and its acceleration, associate with MetS scores, in the middle-age group (r = 0.26, p = 0.006). Age-adjusted PAI1 was also significantly different between the MetS and control groups, and further associated with MetS scores (r = 0.31, P < 0.001), in the middle age group. Conclusion DNAm GrimAge is a surrogate marker for MetS, and its component score, in Koreans. This association can be observed only in middle age. Therefore, appropriate DNA methylation clocks may aid in the prediction of Korean metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Sun Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics and Department of Statistics, Seoul National University, 1 Kwanak-Ro, Kwanak-gu, Seoul, 151-747, Republic of Korea.,Toxicology Division, Daegu Institute, National Forensic Service, 33-14 Hogukrp, Waegwaneup, Gyeongsangbukdo, 39872, Republic of Korea
| | - Taesung Park
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics and Department of Statistics, Seoul National University, 1 Kwanak-Ro, Kwanak-gu, Seoul, 151-747, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Raj K, Horvath S. Current perspectives on the cellular and molecular features of epigenetic ageing. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1532-1542. [PMID: 32276545 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220918329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT The field of epigenetic ageing is relatively new, and the speed of its expansion presents a challenge in keeping abreast with new discoveries and their implications. Several reviews have already addressed the great number of pathologies, health conditions, life-style, and external stressors that are associated with changes to the rate of epigenetic ageing. While these associations highlight and affirm the ability of epigenetic clock to capture biologically meaningful changes associated with age, they do not inform us about the underlying mechanisms. In this very early period since the development of the clock, there have been rather limited experimental research that are aimed at uncovering the mechanism. Hence, the perspective that we proffer is derived from available but nevertheless limited lines of evidence that together provide a seemingly coherent narrative that can be tested. This, we believe would be helpful towards uncovering the workings of the epigenetic clock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Raj
- Radiation Effects Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Steve Horvath
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA and Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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24
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Vaiserman A, Lushchak O. Developmental origins of type 2 diabetes: Focus on epigenetics. Ageing Res Rev 2019; 55:100957. [PMID: 31473332 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2019.100957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, genetics and lifestyle are considered as main determinants of aging-associated pathological conditions. Accumulating evidence, however, suggests that risk of many age-related diseases is not only determined by genetic and adult lifestyle factors but also by factors acting during early development. Type 2 diabetes (T2D), an age-related disease generally manifested after the age of 40, is among such disorders. Since several age-related conditions, such as pro-inflammatory states, are characteristic of both T2D and aging, this disease is conceptualized by many authors as a kind of premature or accelerated aging. There is substantial evidence that intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), induced by poor or unbalanced nutrient intake, exposure to xenobiotics, maternal substance abuse etc., may impair fetal development, thereby causing the fetal adipose tissue and pancreatic beta cell dysfunction. Consequently, persisting adaptive changes may occur in the glucose-insulin metabolism, including reduced capacity for insulin secretion and insulin resistance. These changes can lead to an improved ability to store fat, thus predisposing to T2D development in later life. The modulation of epigenetic regulation of gene expression likely plays a central role in linking the adverse environmental conditions early in life to the risk of T2D in adulthood. In animal models of IUGR, long-term persistent changes in both DNA methylation and expression of genes implicated in metabolic processes have been repeatedly reported. Findings from human studies confirming the role of epigenetic mechanisms in linking early-life adverse experiences to the risk for T2D in adult life are scarce compared to data from animal studies, mainly because of limited access to suitable biological samples. It is, however, convincing evidence that these mechanisms may also operate in human beings. In this review, theoretical models and research findings evidencing the role of developmental epigenetic variation in the pathogenesis of T2D are summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oleh Lushchak
- Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
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Parrott BB, Bertucci EM. Epigenetic Aging Clocks in Ecology and Evolution. Trends Ecol Evol 2019; 34:767-770. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2019.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Balistreri CR, Garagnani P, Madonna R, Vaiserman A, Melino G. Developmental programming of adult haematopoiesis system. Ageing Res Rev 2019; 54:100918. [PMID: 31226498 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2019.100918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Barker hypothesis of 'foetal origin of adult diseases' has led to emphasize the concept of 'developmental programming', based on the crucial role of epigenetic factors. Accordingly, it has been demonstrated that parental adversity (before conception and during pregnancy) and foetal factors (i.e., hypoxia, malnutrition and placental insufficiency) permanently modify the physiological systems of the progeny, predisposing them to premature ageing and chronic disease during adulthood. Thus, an altered functionality of the endocrine, immune, nervous and cardiovascular systems is observed in the progeny. However, it remains to be understood whether the haematopoietic system itself also represents a portrait of foetal programming. Here, we provide evidence, reporting and discussing related theories, and results of studies described in the literature. In addition, we have outlined our opinions and suggest how it is possible to intervene to correct foetal mal-programming. Some pro-health interventions and recommendations are proposed, with the hope of guarantee the health of future generations and trying to combat the continuous increase in age-related diseases in human populations.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Clinical, epidemiological, and biological evidence raises the possibility that serious mental disorders (SMDs) are associated with accelerated biological aging. To the extent this is true; SMDs should not simply be considered in terms of mental illness or brain dysfunction, but also as 'whole body' and multisystem illnesses, or else as conditions with significant somatic concomitants. RECENT FINDINGS The concept of accelerated biological aging in SMDs is supported by reports of accelerated changes in certain biomarkers normally associated with the aging process. SUMMARY We define and discuss several proposed biological aging markers that have been examined in SMDs, we review the most recent findings, and we conclude with opinions regarding the merits and meanings of these markers, their usefulness in understanding and treating SMDs, and remaining questions and future directions in this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Saverio Bersani
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Synthia H. Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Victor I. Reus
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Owen M. Wolkowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
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Tekola-Ayele F, Workalemahu T, Gorfu G, Shrestha D, Tycko B, Wapner R, Zhang C, Louis GMB. Sex differences in the associations of placental epigenetic aging with fetal growth. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:5412-5432. [PMID: 31395791 PMCID: PMC6710059 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Identifying factors that influence fetal growth in a sex-specific manner can help unravel mechanisms that explain sex differences in adverse neonatal outcomes and in-utero origins of cardiovascular disease disparities. Premature aging of the placenta, a tissue that supports fetal growth and exhibits sex-specific epigenetic changes, is associated with pregnancy complications. Using DNA methylation-based age estimator, we investigated the sex-specific relationship of placental epigenetic aging with fetal growth across 13-40 weeks gestation, neonatal size, and risk of low birth weight. Placental epigenetic age acceleration (PAA), the difference between DNA methylation age and gestational age, was associated with reduced fetal weight among males but with increased fetal weight among females. PAA was inversely associated with fetal weight, abdominal circumference, and biparietal diameter at 32-40 weeks among males but was positively associated with all growth measures among females across 13-40 weeks. A 1-week increase in PAA was associated with 2-fold (95% CI 1.2, 3.2) increased odds for low birth weight and 1.5-fold (95% CI 1.1, 2.0) increased odds for small-for-gestational age among males. In all, fetal growth was significantly reduced in males but not females exposed to a rapidly aging placenta. Epigenetic aging of the placenta may underlie sex differences in neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fasil Tekola-Ayele
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tsegaselassie Workalemahu
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Gezahegn Gorfu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Deepika Shrestha
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Benjamin Tycko
- Hackensack-Meridian Health Center for Discovery and Innovation and the Hackensack-Meridian Health School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Ronald Wapner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Cuilin Zhang
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Germaine M. Buck Louis
- Dean’s Office, College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
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Lindeman LC, Thaulow J, Song Y, Kamstra JH, Xie L, Asselman J, Aleström P, Tollefsen KE. Epigenetic, transcriptional and phenotypic responses in two generations of Daphnia magna exposed to the DNA methylation inhibitor 5-azacytidine. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2019; 5:dvz016. [PMID: 31528364 PMCID: PMC6736351 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvz016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The water flea Daphnia magna is a keystone species in freshwater ecosystems and has been widely used as a model organism in environmental ecotoxicology. This aquatic crustacean is sensitive to environmental stressors and displays considerable plasticity in adapting to changing environmental conditions. Part of this plasticity may be due to epigenetic regulation of gene expression, including changes to DNA methylation and histone modifications. Because of the generally hypomethylated genome of this species, we hypothesized that the histone code may have an essential role in the epigenetic control and that histone modifications might be an early marker for stress. This study aims to characterize the epigenetic, transcriptional and phenotypic responses and their causal linkages in directly exposed adult (F0) Daphnia and peritoneal exposed neonates (F1) after a chronic (7-day) exposure to a sublethal concentration (10 mg/l) of 5-azacytidine, a well-studied vertebrate DNA methylation inhibitor. Exposure of the F0 generation significantly reduced the cumulative fecundity, accompanied with differential expression of genes in the one-carbon-cycle metabolic pathway. In the epigenome of the F0 generation, a decrease in global DNA methylation, but no significant changes on H3K4me3 or H3K27me3, were observed. In the F1 offspring generation, changes in gene expression, a significant reduction in global DNA methylation and changes in histone modifications were identified. The results indicate that exposure during adulthood may result in more pronounced effects on early development in the offspring generation, though interpretation of the data should be carefully done since both the exposure regime and developmental period is different in the two generations examined. The obtained results improve our understanding of crustacean epigenetics and the tools developed may promote use of epigenetic markers in hazard assessment of environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leif Christopher Lindeman
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 1432 Ås, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Correspondence address. Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 1432 Ås, Norway. Tel: +47 67232039; Fax: +47 67230691; E-mail:
| | - Jens Thaulow
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, N-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - You Song
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, N-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jorke H Kamstra
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 369 Sentrum, N-0454 Oslo, Norway
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Li Xie
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, N-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jana Asselman
- Laboratory for Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology (GhEnToxLab), Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Aleström
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 369 Sentrum, N-0454 Oslo, Norway
| | - Knut Erik Tollefsen
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 1432 Ås, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, N-0349 Oslo, Norway
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Xiao FH, Wang HT, Kong QP. Dynamic DNA Methylation During Aging: A "Prophet" of Age-Related Outcomes. Front Genet 2019; 10:107. [PMID: 30833961 PMCID: PMC6387955 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological markers of aging used to predict physical health status in older people are of great interest. Telomere shortening, which occurs during the process of cell replication, was initially considered a promising biomarker for the prediction of age and age-related outcomes (e.g., diseases, longevity). However, the high instability in detection and low correlation with age-related outcomes limit the extension of telomere length to the field of prediction. Currently, a growing number of studies have shown that dynamic DNA methylation throughout human lifetime exhibits strong correlation with age and age-related outcomes. Indeed, many researchers have built age prediction models with high accuracy based on age-dependent methylation changes in certain CpG loci. For now, DNA methylation based on epigenetic clocks, namely epigenetic or DNA methylation age, serves as a new standard to track chronological age and predict biological age. Measures of age acceleration (Δage, DNA methylation age – chronological age) have been developed to assess the health status of a person. In addition, there is evidence that an accelerated epigenetic age exists in patients with certain age-related diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease). In this review, we provide an overview of the dynamic signatures of DNA methylation during aging and emphasize its practical utility in the prediction of various age-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Hui Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Study, Kunming, China.,KIZ/CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming, China
| | - Hao-Tian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Study, Kunming, China.,KIZ/CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming, China.,Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing-Peng Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Study, Kunming, China.,KIZ/CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming, China
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Montesanto A, D'Aquila P, Rossano V, Passarino G, Bellizzi D. Mini Nutritional Assessment Scores Indicate Higher Risk for Prospective Mortality and Contrasting Correlation With Age-Related Epigenetic Biomarkers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:672. [PMID: 31632350 PMCID: PMC6779723 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The plasticity of the individual epigenetic landscape that goes to countless rearrangements throughout life is closely the reflection of environmental factors such as chemical exposure, socio-economic status and nutrient intakes both early and late in life. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is a well-validated tool for assessing malnutrition in old people. It includes 6 (MNA-SF) or 18 (MNA-LF) self-reported questions derived from general, anthropometric, dietary, and self- assessment. We evaluated the association between the nutritional status, as measured by MNA, and methylation biomarkers we previously demonstrated to be associated with chronological and biological age in human. We found that malnutrition is positively correlated with DNA methylation status at the global level, in line with our previous reports. On the contrary, most of the sites located within specific genes, which were previously reported to be correlated with chronological and biological aging, showed to be not affected by malnutrition, or even to have correlations with malnutrition opposite to those previously reported with frailty. These results may suggest that malnutrition is among the first effects of disability and other age- related problems and a generalized non-specific epigenetic remodeling may be the initial response of the organism. By contrast, the fine remodeling of specific genomic sites is scarcely affected by malnutrition and may respond to a more complex interaction of different factors. Therefore, although malnutrition in the elderly is certainly a risk factor for survival, this is partially independent of the aging process of the organism which leads to the methylation remodeling previously described to measure chronological and biological aging.
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