Epigenetic Implications of Socioeconomic Status and Education on Sperm DNA Methylation Patterns.

Abstract

Objective: To identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and assess epigenetic age and instability scores within each cohort of differing income level and educational attainment.

Design: Retrospective analysis of epigenetic data.

Subjects: 1429 semen samples from participants in the FAZST trial.

Exposure: Socio-economic status, approximated by self-reported income, and education level.

Main outcome measures: Differential sperm DNA methylation, epigenetic age, epigenetic stability RESULTS: There were four significant DMRs associated with the income cohorts and seven associated with the education cohorts, suggesting epigenetic patterns vary with socio-economic status. Adjusted epigenetic age (GLAD values) did not differ significantly in either cohort; however, a higher number of unstable promoters were observed in the lowest education cohort (p-value of 0.006), indicating dysregulation in the epigenome.

Conclusion: These findings suggest a biological link between income and education level in sperm epigenetic patterns, which may influence reproductive health. The increase in unstable promoters in the lower education cohorts may contribute to health disparities associated with educational attainment; however, it is important to consider lifestyle factors and environmental exposures as potential underlying causes. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the implications of these epigenetic changes and their relationship to health outcomes.