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ARS Home » Plains Area » Clay Center, Nebraska » U.S. Meat Animal Research Center » Nutrition, Growth and Physiology » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #405821
Research Project: Optimizing Nutrient Management and Efficiency of Beef Cattle and Swine

Location: Nutrition, Growth and Physiology

Title: Epigenetics and nutrition: Molecular mechanisms and tissue adaptation in developmental programming

Author
item DINIZ, WELLISON - Auburn University
item REYNOLDS, LAWRENCE - North Dakota State University
item WARD, ALISON - University Of Saskatchewan
item CATON, JOEL - North Dakota State University
item DAHLEN, CARL - North Dakota State University
item MCCARTHY, KACIE - University Of Nebraska
item MENEZES, ANA CLARA - South Dakota State University
item Cushman, Robert - Bob
item Crouse, Matthew

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/2023
Publication Date: 5/24/2024
Citation: Diniz, W.J.S., Reynolds, L.P., Ward, A.K., Caton, J.S., Dahlen, C.R., McCarthy, K.L., Menezes, A.C.B., Cushman, R.A., Crouse, M.S. 2024. Epigenetics and nutrition: Molecular mechanisms and tissue adaptation in developmental programming. In: Vaschetto, L. M., editor. Epigenetics and Human Health. 12:49-69.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Biological mechanisms regulating normal growth, development, and nutrient utilization are programmed in utero for postnatal growth and adult function. An increasing body of evidence shows that epigenetic mechanisms drive developmental programming. Among the factors that underlie fetal programming, most studies have focused on maternal nutrition during critical developmental windows. Critical periods include the time surrounding conception, placentation, and organogenesis. Nutritional imbalances of key nutrients or other environmental factors can potentially leave epigenetic marks in the genome that can be carried forward through their subsequent developmental stages and likely across generations. In this chapter, we address the complex interplay between nutrition, epigenomics, and physiological response to explore the impact of parental nutrition during the periconceptual period and throughout gestation on fetal organ development and metabolism. We will primarily focus on the development of both the hepatic and muscular systems of livestock species; however, relevant findings from human and animal models will also be integrated. The complex and intricate relationship between nutrition, epigenetics, and developmental programming warrant further exploration to fully dissect its mechanisms and implications.