PBDEs, common flame retardants found on household furniture, caused an increased risk of diabetes in mice only exposed to the chemicals through their mother's milk. In addition to increased glucose intolerance, researchers also noted higher levels of endocannabinoid in the livers of the offspring of mice exposed to PBDEs.
Using brain tissue samples, researchers have identified a new epigenetic clock for brain aging. The study reveals how the epigenetic clock could provide insight into accelerated brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders.
Early childhood trauma has an impact on glucose metabolism and blood composition, which are passed on to the next generation.
Researchers conduct the first study to use nonharmful stress, like intermittent systemic hypoxia, to protect against disease in the first generation offspring in mice.
Twin study reveals how we adapt to aging may be genetically influenced. Individual differences in blood DNA methylation are partly heritable later in life and longitudinally across a decade, researchers report.
Mouse study reveals the sperm of males infected with Toxoplasma carries an altered epigenetic signature that impacts the brain of the offspring. While the effects of T. gondii infections in pregnant women are fairly well documented, this is a novel study looking at the impact of male infection and its impact on offspring. The study raises the question as to whether T. gondii infections in men before conception impact the health and development of future generations.
Key biomarkers for predicting autism in newborns have been identified.
Cortical and subcortical memory regions exhibit distinct genetic signatures that reflect potential differences in health and disease.
Teenage binge drinking is linked to altered gene expression in the brain, specifically the central nucleus of the amygdala. Adolescent rats exposed to alcohol had increased levels of miR-137, resulting in lower expression of proteins essential for healthy neuron growth. During adulthood, these rats displayed higher levels of anxiety and an increased preference for alcohol consumption.
Study reveals how acetate, a byproduct of alcohol breakdown, travels to the brain's learning system and alters proteins that regulate DNA function.
Greater maternal involvement upregulates the oxytocin system in their babies.
Study implicates dysregulation of epigenetic mechanisms of both DNA methylation and microRNA activity, in addition to oxytocin to hypersexuality.