Identification of a DNA methylation episignature for recurrent constellations of embryonic malformations

Sadegheh Haghshenas, Karim Karimi, Roger E. Stevenson, Michael A. Levy, Raissa Relator, Jennifer Kerkhof, Jessica Rzasa, Haley McConkey, Carolyn Lauzon-Young, Tugce B. Balci, Alexandre M. White-Brown, Melissa T. Carter, Julie Richer, Christine M. Armour, Sarah L. Sawyer, Priya T. Bhola, Matthew L. Tedder, Cindy D. Skinner, Iris A.L.M. van Rooij, Romy van de PutteIvo de Blaauw, Rebekka M. Koeck, Alexander Hoischen, Han Brunner, Masoud Zamani Esteki, Anna Pelet, Stanislas Lyonnet, Jeanne Amiel, Kym M. Boycott*, Bekim Sadikovic*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The term “recurrent constellations of embryonic malformations” (RCEM) is used to describe a number of multiple malformation associations that affect three or more body structures. The causes of these disorders are currently unknown, and no diagnostic marker has been identified. Consequently, providing a definitive diagnosis in suspected individuals is challenging. In this study, genome-wide DNA methylation analysis was conducted on DNA samples obtained from the peripheral blood of 53 individuals with RCEM characterized by clinical features recognized as VACTERL and/or oculoauriculovertebral spectrum association. We identified a common DNA methylation episignature in 40 out of the 53 individuals. Subsequently, a sensitive and specific binary classifier was developed based on the DNA methylation episignature. This classifier can facilitate the use of RCEM episignature as a diagnostic biomarker in a clinical setting. The study also investigated the functional correlation of RCEM DNA methylation relative to other genetic disorders with known episignatures, highlighting the common genomic regulatory pathways involved in the pathophysiology of RCEM.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1643-1655
Number of pages13
JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics
Volume111
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Aug 2024

Keywords

  • DNA methylation
  • epigenetics
  • episignature
  • OAV
  • recurrent constellations of embryonic malformations
  • VACTERL

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