The Emerging Role of Epigenetics in Inflammation and Immunometabolism

Research output: Contribution to journalReviewResearchpeer-review

Recent research developments have shed light on the risk factors contributing to metabolic complications, implicating both genetic and environmental factors, potentially integrated by epigenetic mechanisms. Distinct epigenetic changes in immune cells are frequently observed in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, and these are associated with alterations in the phenotype, function, and trafficking patterns of these cells. The first step in the development of effective therapeutic strategies is the identification of distinct epigenetic signatures associated with metabolic disorders. In this review we provide an overview of the epigenetic mechanisms influencing immune cell phenotype and function, summarize current knowledge about epigenetic changes affecting immune functions in the context of metabolic diseases, and discuss the therapeutic options currently available to counteract epigenetically driven metabolic complications.

Original languageEnglish
JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume27
Issue number11
Pages (from-to)782-795
Number of pages14
ISSN1043-2760
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Jul 2016

ID: 166679666