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Musci RJ, Raghunathan RS, Johnson SB, Klein L, Ladd-Acosta C, Ansah R, Hassoun R, Voegtline KM. Using Epigenetic Clocks to Characterize Biological Aging in Studies of Children and Childhood Exposures: a Systematic Review. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2023; 24:1398-1423. [PMID: 37477807 PMCID: PMC10964791 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-023-01576-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Biological age, measured via epigenetic clocks, offers a unique and useful tool for prevention scientists to explore the short- and long-term implications of age deviations for health, development, and behavior. The use of epigenetic clocks in pediatric research is rapidly increasing, and there is a need to review the landscape of this work to understand the utility of these clocks for prevention scientists. We summarize the current state of the literature on the use of specific epigenetic clocks in childhood. Using systematic review methods, we identified studies published through February 2023 that used one of three epigenetic clocks as a measure of biological aging. These epigenetic clocks could either be used as a predictor of health outcomes or as a health outcome of interest. The database search identified 982 records, 908 of which were included in a title and abstract review. After full-text screening, 68 studies were eligible for inclusion. While findings were somewhat mixed, a majority of included studies found significant associations between the epigenetic clock used and the health outcome of interest or between an exposure and the epigenetic clock used. From these results, we propose the use of epigenetic clocks as a tool to understand how exposures impact biologic aging pathways and development in early life, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of preventive interventions that aim to reduce exposure and associated adverse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashelle J Musci
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | | | - Sara B Johnson
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Lauren Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Christine Ladd-Acosta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Rosemary Ansah
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Ronda Hassoun
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Kristin M Voegtline
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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Neale ZE, Kuo SIC, Dick DM. A systematic review of gene-by-intervention studies of alcohol and other substance use. Dev Psychopathol 2021; 33:1410-1427. [PMID: 32602428 PMCID: PMC7772257 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579420000590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol and other substance use problems are common, and the efficacy of current prevention and intervention programs is limited. Genetics may contribute to differential effectiveness of psychosocial prevention and intervention programs. This paper reviews gene-by-intervention (G×I) studies of alcohol and other substance use, and implications for integrating genetics into prevention science. Systematic review yielded 17 studies for inclusion. Most studies focused on youth substance prevention, alcohol was the most common outcome, and measures of genotype were heterogeneous. All studies reported at least one significant G×I interaction. We discuss these findings in the context of the history and current state of genetics, and provide recommendations for future G×I research. These include the integration of genome-wide polygenic scores into prevention studies, broad outcome measurement, recruitment of underrepresented populations, testing mediators of G×I effects, and addressing ethical implications. Integrating genetic research into prevention science, and training researchers to work fluidly across these fields, will enhance our ability to determine the best intervention for each individual across development. With growing public interest in obtaining personalized genetic information, we anticipate that the integration of genetics and prevention science will become increasingly important as we move into the era of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe E. Neale
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | | | - Danielle M. Dick
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University
- College Behavioral and Emotional Health Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University
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Hein S, Weeland J, Square A, Haeffel GJ, Chapman J, Macomber D, Lee M, Foley Geib C, Grigorenko EL. Effectiveness of a social problem solving training in youth in detention or on probation: An RCT and pre-post community implementation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2020; 72:101626. [PMID: 32889425 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2020.101626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The effectiveness of a 10-session social problem-solving training (SPST) was evaluated in two independent studies in a juvenile justice (JJ) setting. In both studies, we aimed to examine main intervention effects on social problem-solving skills and recidivism, as well as differential effects as modulated by anger, anger regulation, and single nucleotide polymorphisms in the COMT gene. In Study 1, a randomized controlled trial (RCT), 289 male detainees (Mage= 14.95 years) were randomly assigned to SPST or treatment-as-usual (TAU). In Study 2, a pre-post community implementation, 187 youth (Mage = 16.03 years) on probation were assessed before and after SPST. No significant main effects of SPST on social problem solving or recidivism were shown in either study. With regard to differential effects, among youth in detention,COMT haplotypes predicted intervention effects on state anger. Moreover, independent of SPST, inward anger expression was associated with an increase in state anger from pre- to post and an increase in state anger with a decrease in social problem solving. Among youth on probation, COMT haplotypes predicted social problem-solving skills, and, in turn, an increase in social problem-solving skills decreased the odds of recidivism after SPST. The lack of main effects of SPST may be due to low program integrity in JJ settings. Juveniles' emotional and genetic characteristics might modulate the effectiveness of interventions in JJ settings. We recommend studying large samples to substantiate this observation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joyce Weeland
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - John Chapman
- Connecticut Judicial Branch, Court Support Services Division, Wethersfield, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Catherine Foley Geib
- Connecticut Judicial Branch, Court Support Services Division, Wethersfield, CT, USA
| | - Elena L Grigorenko
- Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Epigenetic Biomarkers for Environmental Exposures and Personalized Breast Cancer Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041181. [PMID: 32069786 PMCID: PMC7068429 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Environmental and lifestyle factors are believed to account for >80% of breast cancers; however, it is not well understood how and when these factors affect risk and which exposed individuals will actually develop the disease. While alcohol consumption, obesity, and hormone therapy are some known risk factors for breast cancer, other exposures associated with breast cancer risk have not yet been identified or well characterized. In this paper, it is proposed that the identification of blood epigenetic markers for personal, in utero, and ancestral environmental exposures can help researchers better understand known and potential relationships between exposures and breast cancer risk and may enable personalized prevention strategies.
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Schiele MA, Gottschalk MG, Domschke K. The applied implications of epigenetics in anxiety, affective and stress-related disorders - A review and synthesis on psychosocial stress, psychotherapy and prevention. Clin Psychol Rev 2020; 77:101830. [PMID: 32163803 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2020.101830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mental disorders are highly complex and multifactorial in origin, comprising an elaborate interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA modifications (e.g. CpG methylation), histone modifications (e.g. acetylation) and microRNAs function as a translator between genes and the environment. Indeed, environmental influences such as exposure to stress shape epigenetic patterns, and lifetime experiences continue to alter the function of the genome throughout the lifespan. Here, we summarize the recently burgeoning body of research regarding the involvement of aberrant epigenetic signatures in mediating an increased vulnerability to a wide range of mental disorders. We review the current knowledge of epigenetic changes to constitute useful markers predicting the clinical response to psychotherapeutic interventions, and of psychotherapy to alter - and potentially reverse - epigenetic risk patterns. Given first evidence pointing to a transgenerational transmission of epigenetic information, epigenetic alterations arising from successful psychotherapy might be transferred to future generations and thus contribute to the prevention of mental disorders. Findings are integrated into a multi-level framework highlighting challenges pertaining to the mechanisms of action and clinical implications of epigenetic research. Promising future directions regarding the prediction, prevention, and personalized treatment of mental disorders in line with a 'precision medicine' approach are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam A Schiele
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 5, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael G Gottschalk
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 5, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Domschke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 5, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany; Center for Basics in NeuroModulation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Straße 64, D-79106 Freiburg, Germany.
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Jiang S, Postovit L, Cattaneo A, Binder EB, Aitchison KJ. Epigenetic Modifications in Stress Response Genes Associated With Childhood Trauma. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:808. [PMID: 31780969 PMCID: PMC6857662 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may be referred to by other terms (e.g., early life adversity or stress and childhood trauma) and have a lifelong impact on mental and physical health. For example, childhood trauma has been associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The heritability of ACE-related phenotypes such as PTSD, depression, and resilience is low to moderate, and, moreover, is very variable for a given phenotype, which implies that gene by environment interactions (such as through epigenetic modifications) may be involved in the onset of these phenotypes. Currently, there is increasing interest in the investigation of epigenetic contributions to ACE-induced differential health outcomes. Although there are a number of studies in this field, there are still research gaps. In this review, the basic concepts of epigenetic modifications (such as methylation) and the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the stress response are outlined. Examples of specific genes undergoing methylation in association with ACE-induced differential health outcomes are provided. Limitations in this field, e.g., uncertain clinical diagnosis, conceptual inconsistencies, and technical drawbacks, are reviewed, with suggestions for advances using new technologies and novel research directions. We thereby provide a platform on which the field of ACE-induced phenotypes in mental health may build.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shui Jiang
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Lynne Postovit
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Annamaria Cattaneo
- Biological Psychiatric Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisabeth B. Binder
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Katherine J. Aitchison
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Trucco EM, Madan B, Villar M. The Impact of Genes on Adolescent Substance Use: A Developmental Perspective. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2019; 6:522-531. [PMID: 31929960 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-019-00273-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This review discusses the importance of understanding the impact of genetic factors on adolescent substance use within a developmental framework. Methods for identifying genetic factors, relevant endophenotypes and intermediate phenotypes, and gene-environment interplay effects will be reviewed. Findings Prior work supports the role of polygenic variation on adolescent substance use. Mechanisms through which genes impact adolescent phenotypes consist of differences in neural structure and function, early temperamental differences, and problem behavior. Gene-environment interactions are characterized by increased vulnerability to both maladaptive and adaptive contexts. Summary Developmental considerations in genetic investigations highlight the critical role that polygenic variation has on adolescent substance use. Yet, determining what to do with this information, especially in terms of personalized medicine, poses ethical and logistic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa M Trucco
- Florida International University, Psychology Department, Center for Children and Families, 11200 SW 8 Street, AHC-1, Miami, FL 33199
| | - Brigitte Madan
- Florida International University, Center for Children and Families, 11200 SW 8 Street, AHC-4, Miami, FL 33199
| | - Michelle Villar
- Florida International University, Center for Children and Families, 11200 SW 8 Street, AHC-1, Miami, FL 33199
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Dick DM. Commentary for Special Issue of Prevention Science "Using Genetics in Prevention: Science Fiction or Science Fact?". PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2019; 19:101-108. [PMID: 28735446 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-017-0828-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of prevention studies have incorporated genetic information. In this commentary, I discuss likely reasons for growing interest in this line of research and reflect on the current state of the literature. I review challenges associated with the incorporation of genotypic information into prevention studies, as well as ethical considerations associated with this line of research. I discuss areas where developmental psychologists and prevention scientists can make substantive contributions to the study of genetic predispositions, as well as areas that could benefit from closer collaborations between prevention scientists and geneticists to advance this area of study. In short, this commentary tackles the complex questions associated with what we hope to achieve by adding genetic components to prevention research and where this research is likely to lead in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Dick
- Departments of Psychology and Human & Molecular Genetics, College Behavioral and Emotional Health Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA.
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Barone L, Barone V, Dellagiulia A, Lionetti F. Testing an Attachment-Based Parenting Intervention-VIPP-FC/A in Adoptive Families with Post-institutionalized Children: Do Maternal Sensitivity and Genetic Markers Count? Front Psychol 2018; 9:156. [PMID: 29515483 PMCID: PMC5826058 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effectiveness of a newly integrated version of an intervention targeting adoptive mothers' positive parenting for promoting children's emotional availability, by testing the moderating role of both two maternal genetic polymorphisms (i.e., 5HTTLPR and DRD4-VNTR) and emotional availability-EA on intervention outcomes. Mothers with their children (N = 80; Mage = 42.73 years, SD = 3.79; Mage = 33.18 months, SD = 16.83 months) participated in a RCT testing the Video-Feedback Intervention to Promote Positive Parenting and Sensitive Discipline-VIPP-FC/A effectiveness. Mixed effects regression models showed a significant improvement in mother-child EA for the VIPP-intervention vs. the dummy intervention condition, with a moderating role of maternal EA on children's outcomes. No significant moderating effect was found for the two genetic polymorphisms inquired. Children's and mother's outcomes obtained are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Barone
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Virginia Barone
- Molecular and Developmental Medicine Department, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Lionetti
- Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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The Implications of Genetics for Prevention and Intervention Programming. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2017; 19:1-5. [PMID: 28865044 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-017-0837-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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