Current Projects

Project 1: DNA methylation at birth showing age-specific association with atopy in children, a prospective longitudinal study
Atopy or allergic sensitization in children is a major risk factor for common allergic conditions later in life, such as asthma, eczema, and rhinitis. Studies suggest that DNA methylation (DNAm) at birth may play a role in the development of atopy, but age-specific association is not well established. The study investigates the age-specific association between DNAm at birth and atopy during early childhood. Using data from the Isle of Wight third-generation birth cohort (F2), atopy was assessed using skin prick tests (SPT) at multiple time points (1,3, and 6 years), and DNAm was measured from umbilical cord blood or Guthrie cards.

Project 2: The effect of maternal atopy on childhood atopy via DNA methylation at birth
Allergic sensitization is often inherited. Children of atopic parents have a higher risk of developing allergic diseases later in life. Though the specific inheritance mechanism remains unknown, studies suggest that maternal atopic status plays a more important role in transferring the risk than that of the father. This study investigates whether DNA methylation (DNAm) at birth mediates the association between maternal atopy and offspring atopy in early childhood. Using data from the Isle of Wight second-generation birth cohort (F1), atopy was assessed at age four using skin prick tests (SPT), and DNAm was measured from umbilical cord blood at birth.