Epigenetics: Definition, Mechanisms and Clinical Perspective

Overview

Journal Semin Reprod Med

Specialty Reproductive Medicine

Date 2009 Aug 28

PMID 19711245

Citations 276

Authors

Catherine Dupont

D Randall Armant

Carol A Brenner

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

A vast array of successive epigenetic modifications ensures the creation of a healthy individual. Crucial epigenetic reprogramming events occur during germ cell development and early embryogenesis in mammals. As highlighted by the large offspring syndrome with in vitro conceived ovine and bovine animals, any disturbance during germ cell development or early embryogenesis has the potential to alter epigenetic reprogramming. Therefore the complete array of human assisted reproductive technology (ART), starting from ovarian hormonal stimulation to embryo uterine transfer, could have a profound impact on the epigenetic state of human in vitro produced individuals. Although some investigators have suggested an increased incidence of epigenetic abnormalities in in vitro conceived children, other researchers have refuted these allegations. To date, multiple reasons can be hypothesized why irrefutable epigenetic alterations as a result of ART have not been demonstrated yet.

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