2019 participants
Pihla Numminen
The aim of this project was to determine the PM20D1 gene methylation status in DNA samples obtained from the Newcastle 85+ study. PM20D1 is potentially the first example of an inherited “epitype” and individuals inherit either zero, one or two methylated alleles of this gene. It has been shown that an individual’s PM20D1 methylation status can have important implications on their health, as high PM20D1 methylation has been linked to, for example, increased likelihood of getting Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. This study was conducted to determine whether there are any significant changes in PM20D1 methylation in the very old individuals compared to the general population. Additionally, patient data was compared against the methylation status to find out any links between a specific methylation status and a disease such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Funding source: Genetics Society
Project supervisor: Dr Gordon Strathdee