Epigenetic epidemiology and alterations in type 2 diabetes and obesity

ype 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity are multifactorial and polygenic metabolic diseases. Combinations of genetic and non-genetic risk factors such as risk SNPs, age, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity increase the risk for these diseases. Emerging data also support a key role for epigenetic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of T2D and obesity. In this chapter, we summarize current knowledge of epigenetic alterations found in individuals with T2D and obesity. We present studies performed in blood, as well as human tissues important for metabolism, i.e., adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, liver, and pancreatic islets. These studies have found differential DNA methylation associated with both T2D and obesity. Although some studies exist, there is still limited information regarding histone modifications in human tissues linked to metabolic diseases. We finally explore how epigenetic mechanisms may be targeted by epigenetic editing and inhibitors of epigenetic enzymes for future therapies and precision medicine in T2D and obesity.