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Review article: Epigenetic control of fetal gene expression
Author(s) -
Nafee TM,
Farrell WE,
Carroll WD,
Fryer AA,
Ismail KMK
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
bjog: an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.157
H-Index - 164
eISSN - 1471-0528
pISSN - 1470-0328
DOI - 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2007.01528.x
Subject(s) - epigenetics , reprogramming , epigenome , biology , phenotype , fetus , epigenesis , organism , bioinformatics , dna methylation , gene expression , genetics , pregnancy , gene
Each differentiated cell type has its own epigenetic signature, which reflects its genotype, developmental history, and environmental influences, and is ultimately reflected in the phenotype of the cell and organism. Some cells undergo major epigenetic ‘reprogramming’ during fetal development. The proper, or improper, handling of these highly sensitive periods may have significant short‐term and long‐term effects on the newborn and his/her progeny. This review highlights the impact of environmental and nutritional factors on the epigenome and the potential effect of epigenetic dysregulation on maternal and fetal pregnancy outcomes, as well as possible long‐term implications.