DNA Methylation in Alcohol Use Disorder

Advances in molecular epidemiology of diabetic retinopathy: from genomics to gut microbiomics

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains a prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of blindness worldwide. The growing global diabetic population underscores the urgency to deepen our understanding of DR pathogenesis and develop effective prevention strategies. This review synthesizes recent advancements in molecular epidemiology, spanning genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and gut microbiomics, elucidating genetic underpinnings, epigenetic modifications, transcriptional alterations, protein biomarkers, metabolic disruptions, and gut microbiota dysbiosis associated with DR. Highlighted are key findings from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), Mendelian randomization (MR) studies, candidate gene association studies, and advancements in epigenetic mechanisms, revealing intricate disease pathways and potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, insights into altered metabolic profiles and gut microbiota compositions in DR underscore their emerging roles in disease progression and complications. Challenges and future directions in molecular epidemiological research are discussed to accelerate the translation of these findings into clinical applications for personalized DR management. The integration of multi-omics research findings may provide novel perspectives for facilitating rapid and accurate disease diagnosis, enabling dynamic disease monitoring, and advancing targeted therapeutic strategies.

Alcohol Consumption and Breast and Ovarian Cancer Development: Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms

Alcohol consumption has been consistently linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including breast and ovarian cancer. Despite substantial evidence supporting this association, the precise mechanisms underlying alcohol's contribution to cancer pathogenesis remain incompletely understood. This narrative review focuses on the key current literature on the biological pathways through which alcohol may influence the development of breast and ovarian cancer. Key mechanisms discussed include the modulation of estrogen levels, the generation of reactive oxygen species, the production of acetaldehyde, the promotion of chronic inflammation, and the induction of epigenetic changes. Alcohol's impact on estrogenic signaling, particularly in the regulation of estrogen and progesterone, is explored in the context of hormone-dependent cancers. Additionally, the role of alcohol-induced DNA damage, mutagenesis, and immune system modulation in tumor initiation and progression is examined. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of alcohol as a modifiable risk factor for breast and ovarian cancer and highlights the need for further research to clarify its role in cancer biology.

Fundamentals of DNA methylation in development

DNA methyation is critical to regulation of gene expression especially during developmentally dynamic changes. A large proportion occurs at CpG (a cytosine followed by a guanine nucleotide) sites and impacts gene expression based on location, timing and level of DNA methylation. The spectrum of effects produced by DNA methylation ranges from inhibition to enhancement of gene expression. Here basic terms and concepts in the study of DNA methylation are introduced. In addition, some of the commonly used techniques to assay DNA methylation are explained. New methods that allow the precise addition and removal of DNA methylation at specific sites will likely enhance our understanding of DNA methylation in development and may even lead to long-lasting therapeutic strategies to cure diseases. IMPACT: Fundamentals of DNA methylation including its significance are made accessible to a broad audience. Common assays for detecting DNA methylation are explained succinctly. Developmental patterns of DNA methylation detected in commonly used animal models are discussed and explained. Novel methodologies to investigate consequences of DNA methylation and demethylation are introduced.

Epigenetic drugs and psychedelics as emerging therapies for alcohol use disorder: insights from preclinical studies

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide leading to physical, mental and socio-economic consequences. While current treatments for AUD have provided relief to individuals, their effectiveness on the long term is often limited, leaving a number of affected individuals without sustainable solutions. In this review, we aim to explore two emerging approaches for AUD: psychedelics and epigenetic drugs (i.e., epidrugs). By examining preclinical studies, different animal species and procedures, we delve into the potential benefits of each of these treatments in terms of addictive behaviors (alcohol drinking and seeking, motivation to drink alcohol and prevention of relapse). Because psychedelics and epidrugs may share common and complementary mechanisms of action, there is an exciting opportunity for exploring synergies between these approaches and their parallel effectiveness in treating AUD and the diverse associated psychiatric conditions.

Racial disparity in uterine leiomyoma: new insights of genetic and environmental burden in myometrial cells

Uterine leiomyoma (LM), also known as uterine fibroids, are common gynecological tumors and can reach a prevalence of 70% among women by the age of 50 years. Notably, the LM burden is much higher in Black women with earlier onset, a greater tumor number, size, and severity compared to White women. Published knowledge shows that there are genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-based risk factors associated with racial disparity for LM. Significant strides have been made on genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic data levels in Black and White women to elucidate the underlying pathomolecular reasons of racial disparity in LM development. However, racial disparity of LM remains a major area of concern in gynecological research. This review highlights risk factors of LM and their role in different races. Furthermore, we discuss the genetics and uterine myometrial microenvironment in LM development. Comparative findings revealed that a major racial difference in the disease is linked to myometrial oxidative burden and altered ROS pathways which is relevant to the oxidized guanine in genomic DNA and MED12 mutations that drive the LM genesis. Considering the burden and morbidity of LM, we anticipate that this review on genetic risk and myometrial microenvironment will strengthen understanding and propel the growth of research to address the racial disparity of LM burden.