The preconception environment and sperm epigenetics

AbstractBackgroundInfertility is a common reproductive disorder, with male factor infertility accounting for approximately half of all cases. Taking a paternal perceptive, recent research has shown that sperm epigenetics, such as changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin structure, and non ‐coding RNA expression, can affect reproductive and offspring health. Importantly, environmental conditions during the preconception period has been demonstrated to shape sperm epigenetics.AimTo provide an overview on epigenetic modifications that regulate normal gene expression and epigenetic remodeling that occurs during spermatogenesis, and to discuss the epigenetic alterations that may occur to the paternal germline as a consequence of preconception environmental conditions and exposures.Results and conclusionThe preconception period represents a significant window of susceptibility in which environmental conditions, such as chemical exposures, nutrition, drugs and stress, shape the sperm epigenome, which can have downstream adverse effects on reproductive success and offspring health. Understanding the environmental legacy of the sperm epigenome during spermatogenesis will enhance reproductive success as well as improve offspring health.
Source: Andrology - Category: Urology & Nephrology Authors: Tags: REVIEW ARTICLE Source Type: research