Latest study tells us, how DNA methylation in premature babies may be linked to attention problems later in childhood! The researchers looked at 441 premature babies. Researchers identified DNA methylation at 33 specific sites, associated with attention problems at age 2.

This study is significant because it suggests that DNA methylation at birth could potentially predict future attention problems in children born premature. Further research is needed to confirm and expand on these findings, but this study opens the door for better understanding and possibly earlier intervention for children at risk for attention-related issues.

DNA and Epigenetics

1. The study aimed to investigate epigenome-wide associations between neonatal DNA methylation and attention problems at age 2 years in children born very preterm. Buccal swabs collected at NICU discharge to measure DNA methylation. Attention problems subscale of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) acted as a key study tool.

2. The study identified DNA methylation at 33 CpG sites associated with child attention problems. CpG are located in genes previously linked to physical and mental health, including several genes associated with ADHD in prior studies.

3. Despite small associations, the study found that neonatal DNA methylation at NICU discharge could be useful in identifying preterm children at risk for long-term attention problems and related psychiatric disorders, potentially benefiting from early prevention and intervention efforts.

4. The research draws attention to the higher risk of attention problems, including ADHD, in children born preterm. We know a little about antecedents of attention problems in this population.

5. The study highlights the potential value of:

6. The study addressed gaps in prior research by not only investigating attention problems in young children born preterm but also conducting an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) rather than focusing on ADHD as a dichotomy.

7. Neonatal Neurobehavior and Outcomes in Very Preterm Infants (NOVI) Study identified participants. Illumina MethylationEPIC Beadarray measured DNA methylation.

8. Neonatal DNA methylation may be one mechanism underlying the links between prenatal environmental conditions and attention problems in children. As indicated by the association between increased prenatal risk and decreased DNA methylation at NICU discharge.

9. The study’s limitations include the lack of genomic data and the tissue differences between buccal swabs and brain tissue. Additionally, the need for further research to investigate whether the same CpGs remain associated with attention problems as children develop. And potentially receive ADHD diagnoses!