Epigenetics of cardiomyopathies: the next frontier

Aida Hajdarpasic*, Martijn Tukker, Wouter te Rijdt, Sharida Mohamedhoesein, Wouter C. Meijers, Kadir Caliskan*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

3 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Cardiomyopathies (CMP) are a diverse group of myocardial diseases that cause structural, functional, and pathological changes to the heart. Alterations at the molecular level associated with the clinical phenotype and progression of CMPs cannot be solely explained by the genetic mutations, even in inherited cardiomyopathies. Epigenetics and environmental factors are likely to significantly modify the clinical manifestations of CMPs, resulting in variable clinical expression and different age-related penetrance. This review examines the role of dysfunctional DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodelling, and noncoding RNAs in the development and exacerbation of CMPs, highlighting their potential as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets, including the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors. Additionally, it explores how environmental exposures can influence epigenetic changes and potentially be used for preventive strategies and personalized care in CMP patients. Monozygotic twin studies and intergenerational studies are discussed as valuable tools for understanding the interplay between genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors. Lastly, this review addresses current challenges and future perspectives, such as the need for greater specificity in epigenetic therapies, minimizing off-target effects, and investigating sex differences in CMP research and treatment.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)257-270
Number of pages14
JournalHeart Failure Reviews
Volume30
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 26 Nov 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© The Author(s) 2024.

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Epigenetics of cardiomyopathies: the next frontier'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this