Environmental Epigenetic Changes, as Risk Factors for the Development of Diseases in Children: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Children are susceptible to environmental contaminants and are at risk of developing diseases, more so if the exposure begins at an early age. Epidemiological studies have postulated the hypothesis of the fetal origin of disease, which is mediated by epigenetic changes. Epigenetic marks are inheritable; they modulate the gene expression and can affect human health due to the presence of environmental factors.

Objective

This review focuses on DNA-methylation and its association with environmental-related diseases in children.

Methods

A search for studies related to DNA-methylation in children by pre- or post-natal environmental exposures was conducted, and those studies with appropriate designs and statistical analyses and evaluations of the exposure were se

SUBMITTER: Alvarado-Cruz I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6748183 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature