scholarly journals Eating Disorders, Heredity and Environmental Activation: Getting Epigenetic Concepts into Practice

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 1332 ◽  
Author(s):  
Howard Steiger ◽  
Linda Booij
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Eating Disorders ◽  
Eating Disorder ◽  
Empirical Evidence ◽  
Life Experiences ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Epigenetic Factors ◽  
Epigenetic Programming ◽  
Gene Environment ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

Epigenetic mechanisms are believed to link environmental exposures to alterations in gene expression, and in so doing, to provide a physical substrate for the activation of hereditary potentials by life experiences. In keeping with this idea, accumulating data suggest that epigenetic processes are implicated in eating-disorder (ED) etiology. This paper reviews literature on putative links between epigenetic factors and EDs, and examines ways in which epigenetic programming of gene expression could account for gene-environment interactions acting in the EDs. The paper also presents evidence suggesting that epigenetic processes link malnutrition and life stresses (gestational, perinatal, childhood, and adult) to risk of ED development. Drawing from empirical evidence and clinical experience, we propose that an epigenetically informed understanding of ED etiology can benefit patients, caregivers, and clinicians alike, in the sense that the perspective can reduce judgmental or blameful attitudes on the part of clinicians and caregivers, and increase self-acceptance and optimism about recovery on the part of those affected.

Epigenetics

2019 ◽  
pp. 56-70
Author(s):  
Edward Hookway ◽  
Nicholas Athanasou ◽  
Udo Oppermann
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Histone Deacetylases ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Tumour Suppressor Genes ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Therapeutic Approaches ◽  
Control Of Gene Expression ◽  
Non Coding Rnas ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

Epigenetics is a term that refers to a collection of diverse mechanisms that are important in both the control of gene expression and the transmission of this information during cell division. Epigenetic processes are deranged in many cancers, leading to a combination of inappropriate silencing of tumour suppressor genes and overexpression of oncogenes. In this chapter, the molecular mechanisms that underpin the major epigenetic processes of DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs will be described in both their normal physiological roles and in the context of cancer. The challenge of understanding the complexity of the interactions between different epigenetic mechanisms and the limitations of our current knowledge will be highlighted. Therapeutic approaches towards targeting deranged epigenetic processes will also be described, such as the use of small molecule inhibitors of histone deacetylases.

Epigenetic Foundations of Emotion Dysregulation

2018 ◽  
pp. 220-236
Author(s):  
Mindy Brown ◽  
Elisabeth Conradt ◽  
Sheila E. Crowell
Keyword(s):  
Dna Sequence ◽  
Molecular Basis ◽  
Emotion Dysregulation ◽  
Clinical Problem ◽  
Biological Pathways ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Molecular Processes ◽  
Gene Environment ◽  
Regulate Gene ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

Emotion dysregulation is a pervasive clinical problem that likely emerges from complex Gene × Environment interactions across development. Epigenetic processes provide a molecular basis by which genotype interacts with the environment across the lifespan to produce phenotype. Epigenetics is defined by molecular processes occurring on and around the genome that regulate gene activity without changing DNA sequence. This chapter describes how epigenetic mechanisms are assessed and provides a brief review of current research on epigenetics, emotion dysregulation, and associated disorders. It then highlights four biological pathways of interest, the serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine systems and the limbic-hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (L-HPA) axis, and argues that, to advance understanding of the pathophysiology of emotion dysregulation, biological pathways rather than single genes must be measured. The chapter describes challenges for the field of epigenetics and how novel methods could be leveraged to overcome those challenges.

scholarly journals Epigenetic Factors of Disease

Diseases ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 42
Author(s):  
Ilham Alshiraihi ◽  
Mark A. Brown
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Epigenetic Factors ◽  
Cellular Memory ◽  
Distinct Cell

The development of tissues involves the direction of specific programs for gene expression among distinct cell types. These programs are often established in a heritable state by virtue of epigenetic mechanisms and corresponding pathways of cellular memory. Thus, the broad synchronization in patterns of gene expression ultimately dictates cellular consequences. Aberrations in these epigenetic mechanisms are known to be associated with a range of diseases. Herein, we highlight epigenetic factors that, when aberrantly expressed, lead to a broad range of diseases. Further, we call upon the community of biomedical researchers to share their findings related to the epigenetic factors of disease.

Genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors in the development of personality disturbance

2009 ◽  
Vol 21 (4) ◽  
pp. 1031-1063 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard A. Depue
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Variables ◽  
Extreme Values ◽  
Environment Interaction ◽  
Epigenetic Factors ◽  
Dimensional Model ◽  
Gene Environment Interaction ◽  
Gene Environment ◽  
Main Factors ◽  
Personality Disturbance ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

AbstractA dimensional model of personality disturbance is presented that is defined by extreme values on interacting subsets of seven major personality traits. Being at the extreme has marked effects on the threshold for eliciting those traits under stimulus conditions: that is, the extent to which the environment affects the neurobiological functioning underlying the traits. To explore the nature of development of extreme values on these traits, each trait is discussed in terms of three major issues: (a) the neurobiological variables associated with the trait, (b) individual variation in this neurobiology as a function of genetic polymorphisms, and (c) the effects of environmental adversity on these neurobiological variables through the action of epigenetic processes. It is noted that gene–environment interaction appears to be dependent on two main factors: (a) both genetic and environmental variables appear to have the most profound and enduring effects when they exert their effects during early postnatal periods, times when the forebrain is undergoing exuberant experience–expectant dendritic and axonal growth; and (b) environmental effects on neurobiology are strongly modified by individual differences in “traitlike” functioning of neurobiological variables. A model of the nature of the interaction between environmental and neurobiological variables in the development of personality disturbance is presented.

scholarly journals Factors Influencing Epigenetic Mechanisms: Is There A Role for Bariatric Surgery?

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 6
Author(s):  
Alessio Metere ◽  
Claire E. Graves
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Bariatric Surgery ◽  
Metabolic Diseases ◽  
Surgical Techniques ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Epigenetic Alterations ◽  
Epigenetic Factors ◽  
Post Translational Modifications ◽  
Development And Aging

Epigenetics is the interaction between the genome and environmental stimuli capable of influencing gene expression during development and aging. A large number of studies have shown that metabolic diseases are highly associated with epigenetic alterations, suggesting that epigenetic factors may play a central role in obesity. To investigate these relationships, we focus our attention on the most common epigenetic modifications that occur in obesity, including DNA methylation and post-translational modifications of histones. We also consider bariatric surgery as an epigenetic factor, evaluating how the anatomic and physiologic modifications induced by these surgical techniques can change gene expression. Here we discuss the importance of epigenetic mechanisms in chronic disease and cancer, and the role of epigenetic disturbances in obesity, with a focus on the role of bariatric surgery.

scholarly journals The Role of Epigenetic Factors in Psoriasis

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (17) ◽  
pp. 9294
Author(s):  
Klaudia Dopytalska ◽  
Piotr Ciechanowicz ◽  
Kacper Wiszniewski ◽  
Elżbieta Szymańska ◽  
Irena Walecka
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Dna Methylation ◽  
Significant Role ◽  
Disease Onset ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Epigenetic Factors ◽  
Individual Gene ◽  
Immune Mediated ◽  
Non Coding Rnas

Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic, immune-mediated disease with an incidence of approximately 2%. The pathogenesis of the disease is complex and not yet fully understood. Genetic factors play a significant role in the pathogenesis of the disease. In predisposed individuals, multiple trigger factors may contribute to disease onset and exacerbations of symptoms. Environmental factors (stress, infections, certain medications, nicotinism, alcohol, obesity) play a significant role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. In addition, epigenetic mechanisms are considered result in modulation of individual gene expression and an increased likelihood of the disease. Studies highlight the significant role of epigenetic factors in the etiology and pathogenesis of psoriasis. Epigenetic mechanisms in psoriasis include DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs. Epigenetic mechanisms induce gene expression changes under the influence of chemical modifications of DNA and histones, which alter chromatin structure and activate transcription factors of selected genes, thus leading to translation of new mRNA without affecting the DNA sequence. Epigenetic factors can regulate gene expression at the transcriptional (via histone modification, DNA methylation) and posttranscriptional levels (via microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs). This study aims to present and discuss the different epigenetic mechanisms in psoriasis based on a review of the available literature.

Environmental epigenomics: understanding the effects of parental care on the epigenome

2010 ◽  
Vol 48 ◽  
pp. 275-287 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patrick O. McGowan ◽  
Moshe Szyf
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Covalent Modification ◽  
Epigenetic Alterations ◽  
Cell Type ◽  
Genetic Sequence ◽  
Expression Of Genes ◽  
Epigenetic Programming ◽  
Epigenetic Patterns ◽  
Epigenetic Pattern ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

An organism’s behavioural and physiological and social milieu influence and are influenced by the epigenome, which is comprised predominantly of chromatin and the covalent modification of DNA by methylation. Epigenetic patterns are sculpted during development to shape the diversity of gene expression programmes in the organism. In contrast with the genetic sequence, which is determined by inheritance and is virtually identical in all tissues, the epigenetic pattern varies from cell type to cell type and is potentially dynamic throughout life. It is postulated that different environmental exposures could effect epigenetic patterns relevant for human behaviour. Because epigenetic programming defines the state of expression of genes, epigenetic differences could have the same consequences as genetic polymorphisms. Yet in contrast with genetic sequence differences, epigenetic alterations are potentially reversible. In the present chapter, we will discuss evidence that epigenetic processes early in life play a role in defining inter-individual trajectories of behaviour, with implications for mental health in adulthood.

scholarly journals How alcohol drinking affects our genes: an epigenetic point of view

2019 ◽  
Vol 97 (4) ◽  
pp. 345-356 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stefania Ciafrè ◽  
Valentina Carito ◽  
Giampiero Ferraguti ◽  
Antonio Greco ◽  
George N. Chaldakov ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Dna Methylation ◽  
Chromatin Remodeling ◽  
Histone Methylation ◽  
Chronic Exposure ◽  
Large Body ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

This work highlights recent studies in epigenetic mechanisms that play a role in alcoholism, which is a complex multifactorial disorder. There is a large body of evidence showing that alcohol can modify gene expression through epigenetic processes, namely DNA methylation and nucleosomal remodeling via histone modifications. In that regard, chronic exposure to ethanol modifies DNA and histone methylation, histone acetylation, and microRNA expression. The alcohol-mediated chromatin remodeling in the brain promotes the transition from use to abuse and addiction. Unravelling the multiplex pattern of molecular modifications induced by ethanol could support the development of new therapies for alcoholism and drug addiction targeting epigenetic processes.

Internal Structure of the Spanish Adaptation of the Eating Disorder Inventory-3

2012 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 25-31 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paula Elosua ◽  
Alicia López-Jáuregui
Keyword(s):  
Eating Disorders ◽  
Eating Disorder ◽  
Internal Structure ◽  
Internal Consistency ◽  
Clinical Sample ◽  
Temporal Stability ◽  
Second Order ◽  
Order Structure ◽  
Eating Disorder Inventory ◽  
High Internal Consistency

In this study the Eating Disorder Inventory-3 was adapted to Spanish and analyzed the internal psychometric properties of the test in a clinical sample of females with eating disorders. The results showed a high internal consistency of the scores as well as high temporal stability. The factor structure of the scale composites was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis. The results supported the existence of a second-order structure beyond the psychological composites. The second-order factor showed high correlation with the factor related to eating disorders. Overall, the Spanish version of the EDI-3 showed good psychometric qualities in terms of internal consistency, temporal stability and internal structure.

COVID-19 Epigenetics and Implications for Public Health

Coronaviruses ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 01 ◽  
Author(s):  
Verda Tunalıgil ◽  
Gülsen Meral ◽  
Ahmet Katı ◽  
Dhrubajyoti Chattopadhyay ◽  
Amit Kumar Mandal
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Conditions ◽  
Empirical Investigation ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Infectious Agent ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Epigenetic Mechanisms ◽  
Age Group ◽  
Epigenetic Changes ◽  
Patient Groups ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

Abstract:: Epigenetic changes in COVID-19 host, a pandemic-causing infectious agent that globally incapacitated communities in varying complexities and capacities are discussed, proposing an analogy that epigenetic processes contribute to disease severity and elevate the risk for death from infection. Percentages of hospitalization, with and without intensive care, in the presence of diseases with increased ACE2 expression, were compared, based on the best available data. Further analysis compared two different age groups, 19-64 and ≥65 years of age. The COVID-19 disease is observed to be the most severe in the 65-and-higher-age group with preexisting chronic conditions. This observational study is a non-experimental empirical investigation of the outcomes of COVID-19 in different patient groups. Results are promising for conducting clinical trials with intervention groups. To ultimately succeed in disease prevention, researchers and clinicians must integrate epigenetic mechanisms to generate valid prescriptions for global well-being.

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