EPIGENETIC MODIFICATION IN FACIAL DEVELOPMENT

Main Article Content

Dr Abdul Aleem
Dr Samra Bokhari
Dr. Nauman Shirazi
Dr Tauseef Ahmed
Dr Abdul Wajid
Dr Filza Minhas
Prof Dr Muhammad Khalil Khan

Keywords

Epigenetic modification, Facial development, DNA methylation, Histone acetylation, Craniofacial morphogenesis

Abstract

Background: Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation, play a critical role in the regulation of gene expression during facial development. These changes are crucial for the proper morphogenesis of craniofacial structures, which are primarily derived from neural crest cells.


Objective: This study aimed to explore the impact of epigenetic modifications on the expression of key genes involved in craniofacial development, including MSX1, PAX9, and FGF8, using both in vitro and in vivo models.


Methods: This study investigated the role of epigenetd. Mouse neural crest cells were cultured and treated with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (2 μM) to inhibic modifications in facial development, focusing on DNA methylation and histone modifications. Facial tissue samples from mouse embryos (E9.5–E12.5) and human fetal tissues were collecteit DNA methylation and Trichostatin A (0.5 μM) to increase histone acetylation. DNA methylation levels were quantified using an ELISA-based 5-methylcytosine kit, while bisulfite sequencing was used for site-specific analysis of key craniofacial genes (MSX1, PAX9, FGF8). Gene expression levels were assessed by qPCR, normalizing to GAPDH.


Results: DNA methylation was reduced significantly in treated cells, with increased expression of key genes (MSX1, PAX9, FGF8). TSA treatment led to enhanced histone acetylation, promoting higher expression of these genes. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences (p<0.05) between treated and control groups, highlighting the impact of epigenetic changes on facial morphogenesis.


Conclusion: Epigenetic modifications, particularly through DNA methylation and histone acetylation, play a vital role in regulating the expression of genes crucial for craniofacial development. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of facial morphogenesis and may have implications for understanding craniofacial malformations.

Abstract 63 | pdf Downloads 27

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