| Can our understanding of epigenetics assist with primary prevention of congenital defects? | |
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MedLine Citation:
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PMID: 19755430 Owner: NLM Status: MEDLINE |
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
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Having identified teratogenic factors, primary prevention of congenital defects is possible by the implementation of specific measures in pregnant women or those planning pregnancy. Our current understanding of the epigenetic processes acting during reproductive events raises new possibilities to prevent both heritable and sporadic congenital anomalies. Cell differentiation during embryonic-fetal development involves different epigenetic processes which, if altered, may affect either somatic or germ cells. Epigenetic alterations can occur in somatic cells at different stages of life, from fecundation to adulthood, and when germ cells are affected, such changes can even be passed on to future generations. This review summarises the main epigenetic processes that influence gene expression and cell specification at different stages of development. The experimental and epidemiological evidence of environmental agents that cause epigenetic alterations is evaluated, as well as their effects in males and females. As a result, new avenues for primary prevention are proposed. |
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Authors:
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Mar?a Luisa Mart?nez-Fr?as |
Publication Detail:
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Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Review Date: 2009-09-15 |
Journal Detail:
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Title: Journal of medical genetics Volume: 47 ISSN: 1468-6244 ISO Abbreviation: J. Med. Genet. Publication Date: 2010 Feb |
Date Detail:
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Created Date: 2010-02-10 Completed Date: 2010-05-06 Revised Date: - |
Medline Journal Info:
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Nlm Unique ID: 2985087R Medline TA: J Med Genet Country: England |
Other Details:
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Languages: eng Pagination: 73-80 Citation Subset: IM |
Affiliation:
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1The Congenital Anomalies Research Centre (CIAC), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid 28029, Spain. mlmartinez.frias@isciii.es |
Export Citation:
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| MeSH Terms | |
Descriptor/Qualifier:
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Congenital Abnormalities
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genetics*,
prevention & control* Environment Epigenesis, Genetic* Female Genomic Imprinting Humans Male Pregnancy |
From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine
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