The role of epigenetic factors in descendants from Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

Abstract

Altogether, Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) are likely to cause some epigenetic changes in the offspring, which might consist the molecular basis of complex characteristics and diseases. The present review contributes a large biochemical dataset of a well-defined group of pre- pubertal in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) conceived children in order to detect the potential effect in the offspring’s health. Additionally, the relevant usefulness of metabolomics and proteomics are also investigated. The outcomes indicate early insulin resistance in ICSI-offspring which can set the basis for further research in the field so as to identify the respective pathophysiological pathways and mechanisms of action. The data support that metabolomics may unravel metabolic variances before they become clinically or biochemically evident, underlining its utility in the ART research.