Maternal folic acid supplementation modulates DNA methylation and gene expression in the rat offspring in a gestation period-dependent and organ-specific manner

Maternal folic acid supplementation can alter DNA methylation and gene expression in the developing fetus, which may confer disease susceptibility later in life. We determined which gestation period and organ were most sensitive to the modifying effect of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy on DNA methylation and gene expression in the offspring. Pregnant rats were randomized to a control diet throughout pregnancy; folic acid supplementation at 2.5x the control during the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd week of gestation only; or folic acid supplementation throughout pregnancy.
Source: The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry - Category: Biochemistry Authors: Source Type: research