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Epigenetics of Human Obesity: A Link Between Genetics and Nutrition

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Molecular Mechanisms Underpinning the Development of Obesity

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Abstract

Epigenetic refers to the study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not modify DNA sequence. The underlying main epigenetic mechanisms comprise DNA methylation, histone modifications and the non-coding micro RNAs (miRNAs). These mechanisms are responsible for maintaining the patterns of gene expression during cellular differentiation. Moreover, there is a link between genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, in which some single nucleotide polymorphisms can interact with nutrients and other bioactive food components. This nutrient-gene interaction can lead to the modulation of gene expression in response to the nutritional factors. When we eat, we introduce some bioactive dietary components that can modify patterns of gene expression thus influencing the phenotype. There is considerable evidence that the pre- or the conception stage strongly influence the risk of developing obesity in later life. In this chapter, we review epigenetic mechanisms involved in the susceptibility and development of obesity. We have collected some of the most recent results on epiobesogenic genes and some nutrients involved in epigenetic changes. Further understanding on how these genes and nutrients act may help toward personalized treatment for obesity-related co-morbidities based on individual needs.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal

    David Albuquerque & Licínio Manco

  2. Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517, Coimbra, Portugal

    Clévio Nóbrega PhD

Authors
  1. David Albuquerque
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  2. Licínio Manco
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  3. Clévio Nóbrega PhD
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Correspondence to David Albuquerque .

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  1. Cntr for Neurosciences and Cell Biology University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal

    Clévio Nóbrega

  2. Nutrition and Gastroenterology Department, Armand-Trousseau Hospital, Valencia, Spain

    Raquel Rodriguez-López

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Albuquerque, D., Manco, L., Nóbrega, C. (2014). Epigenetics of Human Obesity: A Link Between Genetics and Nutrition. In: Nóbrega, C., Rodriguez-López, R. (eds) Molecular Mechanisms Underpinning the Development of Obesity. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-12766-8_8

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