Epigenetics: Definition, Mechanisms and Clinical Perspective

Cathérine Dupont; D. Randall Armant; Carol A Brenner

doi:10.1055/s-0029-1237423

Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, Table of Contents

Semin Reprod Med 2009; 27(5): 351-357
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1237423

Epigenetics: Definition, Mechanisms and Clinical Perspective

Cathérine Dupont¹ ^, ² , D. Randall Armant¹ ^, ³ , Carol A. Brenner¹ ^, ²

¹Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
²Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
³Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland

Abstract

ABSTRACT

A vast array of successive epigenetic modifications ensures the creation of a healthy individual. Crucial epigenetic reprogramming events occur during germ cell development and early embryogenesis in mammals. As highlighted by the large offspring syndrome with in vitro conceived ovine and bovine animals, any disturbance during germ cell development or early embryogenesis has the potential to alter epigenetic reprogramming. Therefore the complete array of human assisted reproductive technology (ART), starting from ovarian hormonal stimulation to embryo uterine transfer, could have a profound impact on the epigenetic state of human in vitro produced individuals. Although some investigators have suggested an increased incidence of epigenetic abnormalities in in vitro conceived children, other researchers have refuted these allegations. To date, multiple reasons can be hypothesized why irrefutable epigenetic alterations as a result of ART have not been demonstrated yet.

KEYWORDS

Epigenetics - X-chromosome inactivation - imprinting - transgenerational inheritance

Full Text

References

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Carol A BrennerPh.D.

Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Physiology, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, School of Medicine

275 E. Hancock St., Detroit, MI 48201

Email: cbrenner@med.wayne.edu