Epigenetic changes are reversible, respond to environmental stimuli, affect gene expression and lead to phenotype variability. We aim to increase the understanding on the mediating capacity of epigenetic changes and epigenetic stress on the long-standing accumulating cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes risk. We utilize the over 40 yearlong follow-up and offspring study of the Young Finns Study to investigate the stability, dynamics and heritability of DNA methylation and miRNA expression and the connections between classical risk factors and these epigenetic profiles. In addition, we aim to research the intra- and intergenerational inheritance of these epigenetic profiles, and whether they convey the risk of cardiovascular diseases to the next generation. The specific novelty and competitive edge of our study is the unique series of samples covering individuals' lifespan from the critical phase of childhood to adulthood and extending to the next generation of their offspring.

2023

2027