DNA Methylation of Regulatory Regions of Imprinted Genes at Birth and Its Relation to Infant Temperament.

ABSTRACT:

Background

DNA methylation of the differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of imprinted genes is relevant to neurodevelopment.

Methods

DNA methylation status of the DMRs of nine imprinted genes in umbilical cord blood leukocytes was analyzed in relation to infant behaviors and temperament (n = 158).

Results

MEG3 DMR levels were positively associated with internalizing (β = 0.15, P = 0.044) and surgency (β = 0.19, P = 0.018) behaviors, after adjusting for birth weight, gender, gestational age at birth, maternal age at delivery, race/ethnicity, education level, smoking status, parity, and a history of anxiety or depression. Higher methylation levels at the intergenic MEG3-IG methylation regions were associated with surgency (

SUBMITTER: Fuemmeler BF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5127604 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature