Correlation Between Preterm Infants’ Birth and NICU Clinical Health Status and DNA Methylation of NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 Promoters
Purpose
To determine the correlation between preterm infants’ birth and NICU clinical health status and DNAm of targeted genes, NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 promoters.
Background and significance
Preterm infants in the NICU are exposed to numerous stresses, i.e., highly stimulated environment, painful procedures, frequent handling needed for care, and maternal separation. Stress is associated with altered DNA methylation (DNAm) of NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 promoters. However, little is known about interplay between birth and NICU clinical health status, theorized as an index of biological stressors, and DNAm of NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 promoters.
Method
Secondary analysis of sixty-one preterm infants (born 26 to 34 weeks gestational age, GA) were enrolled. Birth and NICU clinical health status included GA, birthweight, 1- and 5-minute Apgar, delivery type, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), small for GA (SGA), and Neonatal Medical Index Classification (NMI). CpG site-specific DNAm of the targeted genes was measured from buccal cell at 34 weeks post-menstrual age and discharge.
Results
DNAm at multiple CpG sites of targeted genes were positively correlated with birthweight, IUGR, and SGA, but negatively correlated with GA, 1-minute Apgar, and NMI.
Conclusions
Findings confirmed the interplay between adverse birth and NICU clinical health status and altered DNAm of NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 promoters. DNAm has been linked to poor short-term outcomes and lifelong risks of chronic health issues, but can change in response to behavioral and environmental factors. Thus, clinical strategies to support optimal birth and NICU clinical health outcomes are crucial during pre-, peri-, and postnatal periods.
Correlation Between Preterm Infants’ Birth and NICU Clinical Health Status and DNA Methylation of NR3C1 exon 1F and HSD11B2 Promoters
