High exposure variance enables candidate biomarker detection in a small EWAS of methylmercury-exposed Peruvian adults.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) are a highly promising approach that can inform precision environmental health. However, current EWAS are underpowered and increasing sample sizes will require substantial resources. Therefore, alternative approaches for identifying candidate biomarkers through EWAS are critical. Here, we provide proof of principle that maximizing exposure variance in EWAS enables effective candidate biomarker detection, even in small sample sizes.

Methods

We profiled genome-wide DNA methylation in whole blood from individuals from Madre de Dios, Peru, with either high methylmercury (MeHg) exposure (> 10 µg/g total hair mercury; N = 16) or low MeHg exposure (< 1 µg/g total hair mercury; N = 16).

Results

We identified nine differenti

SUBMITTER: Weinhouse C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12482037 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature