Perinatal high methyl donor alters gene expression in IGF system in male offspring without altering DNA methylation.

AIM

To investigate the effect of a protein restriction and a supplementation with methyl donor nutrients during fetal and early postnatal life on the expression and epigenetic state of imprinted genes from the IGF system.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Pregnant female rats were fed a protein-restricted diet supplemented or not with methyl donor.

RESULTS

Gene expression of the and genes in the liver of male offspring at birth and weaning was strongly influenced by maternal diet. Whereas the methylation profiles of the and genes were remarkably stable, DNA methylation of promoter was slightly modified.

CONCLUSION

DNA methylation of most, but not all, imprinted gene regulatory regions was resistant to methyl group nutritional supply.