in: The Broad Spectrum of Biological Sciences, Dr. Sevgi Maraklı,Dr. Merve Yılmazer, Editor, Gaziantep University Press, Gaziantep, pp.409-440, 2024
The rising prevalence of metabolic diseases highlights the importance of understanding epigenetic mechanisms in these conditions. Epigenetic interactions with nutritional and environmental factors are critical in explaining the development of metabolic diseases, going beyond genetic predispositions. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) encompasses cardiovascular risk factors such as abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, and insulin resistance (IR). IR, a core component, is linked to chronic conditions like T2DM mellitus and obesity. Epigenetic processes, including as DNA methylation, histone changes, and microRNA activity, can modify gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. These mechanisms, particularly influential during fetal development and early childhood, can determine lifelong health outcomes. In MetSs, epigenetic factors interact with external influences such as diet, physical activity, and environmental stress. For example, malnutrition may affect DNA methylation, suppressing insulin signaling pathways. Physical inactivity and obesity increase inflammatory cytokines, impairing insulin receptor signaling. These changes can lead to IR and MetS by permanently altering gene expression patterns. Epigenetic research offers new strategies for preventing and treating MetS, suggesting personalized therapeutic approaches influenced by lifestyle changes on epigenetic profiles. Thus, an in-depth study of epigenetic regulation may foster the development of novel treatment strategies against MetS, considering the significant role of environmental and nutritional factors in these epigenetic processes.
Keywords: Epigenetic, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, obesity, nutrigenomic