Season of Birth and Genetic Factors Influence Celiac Disease Risk,Study Finds
A groundbreaking study has revealed that teh season of birth,genetic factors,and early-life infections significantly influence the risk of celiac disease autoimmunity (CDA). The research, published in Scientific Reports, highlights the interplay between environmental and genetic factors in the development of this autoimmune condition, especially in children with a specific gene variant.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When individuals with celiac disease ingest gluten,their immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine,leading to malabsorption of nutrients.This can result in symptoms such as diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and anemia, and in children, it may impair growth and development. While ther is no cure, a strict gluten-free diet can manage symptoms and promote healing.
The study,part of the long-term TEDDY study (NCT00279318),aimed to uncover why only a minority of genetically predisposed individuals develop celiac disease despite widespread genetic risk. Researchers analyzed data from 6523 children followed for CDA up to age 10, of whom 1262 developed the condition.
Key Findings:
Table of Contents
- Season of Birth Matters: Children born in spring or summer (april to July) had a higher risk of developing CDA by age 10 (HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.09-1.53; P = .004) compared to those born in other seasons. This risk was slightly lower but still notable by age 5 (HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.03-1.34; P = .01).
- Genetic Interaction: Among non-HLA genetic factors, the CD247 SNP rs864537 showed a significant interaction with season of birth. Children with the CD247-AA genotype born in spring or summer had an elevated risk (95% CI, −0.76 to −0.16), while those without this genotype did not.
Implications:
The findings suggest that seasonal immune system changes and prenatal influences may contribute to the development of celiac disease. This study is the first to explicitly explain why season of birth affects celiac disease risk, emphasizing the need for further research into gene-habitat interactions.
Summary Table:
| Factor | Impact on Celiac Disease Risk |
|————————–|—————————————————————————————————|
| season of Birth | Higher risk for children born in spring/summer (April-July) |
| CD247 SNP rs864537 | Elevated risk for children with CD247-AA genotype born in spring/summer |
| Early-Life Infections | Potential contributor to CDA development |
This research underscores the complexity of celiac disease development and opens new avenues for understanding how environmental factors interact with genetic predispositions. For more insights, explore the full study in Scientific Reports.
Understanding these risk factors could lead to better prevention strategies and early interventions for children at risk of celiac disease. Stay informed and consult healthcare professionals if you suspect symptoms in your child.New Study Reveals Genetic and Environmental Factors in celiac Disease Autoimmunity
A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports has uncovered a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors in the development of celiac disease autoimmunity (CDA).The research, lead by Eurén et al., highlights how variations in the CD247 gene, particularly the rs864537 variant, may influence immune function and autoimmunity.
The Role of Genetics in Celiac Disease
The study found that children carrying the minor G allele of rs864537 showed no increased risk of CDA, suggesting a protective effect. This finding underscores the importance of genetic factors in autoimmune diseases.The CD247 gene,known for its role in T-cell function,has previously been linked to systemic lupus erythematosus,where defective expression leads to impaired immune tolerance.
“Variations in the CD247 gene, like rs864537, may affect autoimmunity, with defective expression in systemic lupus erythematosus linked to T-cell dysfunction and impaired immune tolerance,” the authors noted.
Environmental Triggers and Epigenetic Programming
Season of birth emerged as a significant environmental factor, potentially influencing immune function through epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone modification. The study revealed that early gluten exposure—before 7 months of age—combined with infections and early cessation of breastfeeding, could synergistically increase the risk of CDA.“Season of birth may influence immune function through epigenetic programming during pregnancy, such as DNA methylation and histone modification,” the researchers explained.
Study Limitations and Future Directions
While the findings are promising, the study had limitations, including reliance on self-reported data and a predominantly White cohort. additionally, the research was primarily focused on type 1 diabetes (T1D), which may underrepresent HLA-DQ alleles relevant to celiac disease.Despite these constraints, the authors believe their work lays the groundwork for future research.“Details obtained from the present study can contribute to providing a foundation for risk modeling and biomarker revelation that could be exploited in designing future studies aiming to improve our understanding of CD and other autoimmune diseases,” they concluded.
Key Takeaways
| Factor | Impact on CDA |
|————————–|———————————————————————————–|
| CD247 gene variation | minor G allele of rs864537 may reduce risk |
| Season of birth | Influences immune function through epigenetic programming |
| Early gluten exposure | Increases risk,especially with infections and early cessation of breastfeeding |
What This Means for You
Understanding the genetic and environmental factors behind celiac disease autoimmunity can definitely help in early risk assessment and prevention strategies. if you or a loved one are concerned about celiac disease,consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
For more information on celiac disease symptoms and causes, visit the Mayo Clinic.Stay informed and proactive about your health—knowledge is the first step toward prevention.
New Study Reveals Genetic and Environmental Factors in Celiac Disease Autoimmunity
A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports has uncovered a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors in the development of celiac disease autoimmunity (CDA). The research, led by Eurén et al., highlights how variations in the CD247 gene, particularly the rs864537 variant, may influence immune function and autoimmunity.
The Role of Genetics in Celiac Disease
The study found that children carrying the minor G allele of rs864537 showed no increased risk of CDA, suggesting a protective effect.This finding underscores the importance of genetic factors in autoimmune diseases. The CD247 gene, known for its role in T-cell function, has previously been linked to systemic lupus erythematosus, where defective expression leads to impaired immune tolerance.
“Variations in the CD247 gene, like rs864537, may affect autoimmunity, with defective expression in systemic lupus erythematosus linked to T-cell dysfunction and impaired immune tolerance,” the authors noted.
Environmental Triggers and Epigenetic Programming
Season of birth emerged as a notable environmental factor, potentially influencing immune function through epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone modification. the study revealed that early gluten exposure—before 7 months of age—combined with infections and early cessation of breastfeeding, could synergistically increase the risk of CDA.“Season of birth may influence immune function through epigenetic programming during pregnancy, such as DNA methylation and histone modification,” the researchers explained.
Study Limitations and Future Directions
While the findings are promising, the study had limitations, including reliance on self-reported data and a predominantly White cohort. Additionally, the research was primarily focused on type 1 diabetes (T1D), which may underrepresent HLA-DQ alleles relevant to celiac disease. Despite these constraints, the authors believe their work lays the groundwork for future research. “Details obtained from the present study can contribute to providing a foundation for risk modeling and biomarker revelation that could be exploited in designing future studies aiming to improve our understanding of CDA and other autoimmune diseases,” they concluded.
Key Takeaways
| factor | Impact on CDA |
|---|---|
| CD247 gene variation | Minor G allele of rs864537 may reduce risk |
| Season of birth | Influences immune function through epigenetic programming |
| Early gluten exposure | Increases risk, especially with infections and early cessation of breastfeeding |
What This Means for You
Understanding the genetic and environmental factors behind celiac disease autoimmunity can definitely help in early risk assessment and prevention strategies. If you or a loved one are concerned about celiac disease, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
For more details on celiac disease symptoms and causes,visit the Mayo Clinic. Stay informed and proactive about your health—knowledge is the first step toward prevention.
Summary Table
| Factor | Impact on Celiac Disease Risk |
|---|---|
| Season of Birth | Higher risk for children born in spring/summer (April-July) |
| CD247 SNP rs864537 | Elevated risk for children with CD247-AA genotype born in spring/summer |
| Early-life Infections | Potential contributor to CDA development |
This research underscores the complexity of celiac disease development and opens new avenues for understanding how environmental factors interact with genetic predispositions. For more insights, explore the full study in Scientific Reports.
Understanding these risk factors could lead to better prevention strategies and early interventions for children at risk of celiac disease. Stay informed and consult healthcare professionals if you suspect symptoms in your child.
