Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling with MeDIP-seq using archived dried blood spots

Research output: Contribution to journal/Conference contribution in journal/Contribution to newspaperJournal articleResearchpeer-review

33 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In utero and early-life experienced environmental exposures are suggested to play an important role in many multifactorial diseases potentially mediated through lasting effects on the epigenome. As the epigenome in addition remains modifiable throughout life, identifying specific disease-relevant biomarkers may prove challenging. This has led to an increased interest in epigenome-wide association studies using dried blood spots (DBS) routinely collected in perinatal screening programs. Such programs are in place in numerous countries around the world producing large and unique biobanks. However, availability of this biological material is highly limited as each DBS is made only from a few droplets of blood and storage conditions may be suboptimal for epigenetic studies. Furthermore, as relevant markers may reside outside gene bodies, epigenome-wide interrogation is needed.

RESULTS: Here we demonstrate, as a proof of principle, that genome-wide interrogation of the methylome based on methylated DNA immunoprecipitation coupled with next-generation sequencing (MeDIP-seq) is feasible using a single 3.2 mm DBS punch (60 ng DNA) from filter cards archived for up to 16 years. The enrichment profile, sequence quality and distribution of reads across genetic regions were comparable between samples archived 16 years, 4 years and a freshly prepared control sample.

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, we show that high-quality MeDIP-seq data is achievable from neonatal screening filter cards stored at room temperature, thereby providing information on annotated as well as on non-RefSeq genes and repetitive elements. Moreover, the quantity of DNA from one DBS punch proved sufficient allowing for multiple epigenome studies using one single DBS.

Original languageEnglish
Article number81
JournalClinical Epigenetics (Print)
Volume8
Issue81
ISSN1868-7075
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 26 Jul 2016

Keywords

  • Archival dried blood spots
  • DNA methylation
  • Genome-wide
  • Low input
  • MeDIP-seq

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling with MeDIP-seq using archived dried blood spots'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this