Study: Umbilical Cord Holds Answers to Future Disease

An small epigenetic study of children showed how DNA switches were able to predict metabolic dysfunction later in life.
Study: Umbilical Cord Holds Answers to Future Disease
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Genetic information collected from umbilical cords may reveal whether babies are at risk of developing health issues like diabetes, liver disease, and stroke, according to research presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW).

Using a new genetic tool, researchers analyzed chemical patterns in critical parts of infant DNA, called imprint control regions, which turn genes on or off. When the genes are switched on, the effects can last beyond fetal development into later life.

Amy Denney
Amy Denney
Author
Amy Denney is a health reporter for The Epoch Times. Amy has a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois Springfield and has won several awards for investigative and health reporting. She covers the microbiome, new treatments, and integrative wellness.