Epigenetics and Obesity

• Obesity is a complex and chronic disease affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide and has reached epidemic proportions. It is important to understand the underlying mechanisms to tackle this devastating disease, thus preventing its comorbidities. The epigenome, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, appears to be the link between genetics and nongenetic factors, modulating gene expression, thus contributing to obesity. This chapter summarizes the current scientific evidence regarding the impact of DNA methylation and histone modifications on adiposity in different human tissues from individuals with and without obesity. Studies examining the influence of environmental factors, such as diet and exercise, on the epigenome in humans will also be considered. Epigenetic marks are dynamic and can be modulated by these external factors. Bariatric surgery and its associated weight loss can restore metabolic health through the modification of epigenetic signatures. These studies demonstrate that epigenetics plays an important role in obesity and may therefore provide a better understanding of the development of the disease.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinska och farmaceutiska grundvetenskaper -- Medicinsk genetik (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Basic Medicine -- Medical Genetics (hsv//eng)

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