Umbilical Cord DNA May Predict Future Metabolic Health Risks

**Study Links Umbilical Cord DNA Methylation to Childhood Metabolic Health Risks**

Researchers have identified a potential link between DNA methylation patterns in umbilical cord blood and the risk of developing metabolic health issues later in childhood. The study examined chemical tags on DNA, known as methylation, and found specific alterations associated with markers of metabolic dysfunction, including liver fat accumulation, high blood pressure, and abnormal waist-to-hip ratios. Key genes such as TNS3, GNAS, and CSMD1 were highlighted for their connection to these health indicators.

The findings suggest that changes in these genes’ methylation patterns could serve as early predictors for conditions like diabetes, liver disease, and stroke. By analyzing umbilical cord blood samples, researchers identified correlations between these genetic modifications and future metabolic outcomes. The study provides new insights into how early-life biological markers may relate to long-term health risks.

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Source: https://neurosciencenews.com/umbilical-cord-neurodevelopment-metabolism-28745/

Author

Mark Chiang