Genetics and Epigenetics of Metabolic Diseases

Dear Colleagues,

Metabolic diseases, characterized by dysregulation of metabolic processes, represent a significant global health burden. While genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in the etiology of these disorders, recent advancements in epigenetics, proteomics, and metabolomics have unveiled the intricate interplay between genetic and environmental factors in disease development. Understanding the multifaceted interactions among genes, the environment, proteins, and metabolites, holds promise for unraveling the complexity of metabolic diseases and developing targeted interventions for precision medicine approaches.

Aim and Scope: We seek to explore how genetic variants, epigenetic modifications, protein expression patterns, and metabolite profiles collectively contribute to the pathogenesis of metabolic disease. We also aim to elucidate the dynamic interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental exposures, including diet, physical activity, and environmental toxins, in shaping metabolic health outcomes.

History: The study of genetic and epigenetic factors in metabolic diseases has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with the recent integration of proteomic and metabolomic approaches enriching our understanding of disease mechanisms. Early genetic studies have primarily focused on identifying susceptibility loci through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), while subsequent research has unveiled the importance of epigenetic modifications in regulating gene expression patterns. Concurrently, advancements in methods such as family studies and proteomic and metabolomic technologies have enabled the comprehensive profiling of protein expression and metabolite abundance, providing valuable insights into the molecular signatures of metabolic disorders and their response to environmental stimuli.

Cutting-edge Research: Cutting-edge research in this field encompasses a multidimensional approach, integrating genetics, research methods, epigenetics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Innovative methodologies, such as integrative multi-omics analysis and systems biology modeling are reshaping our understanding of the intricate networks governing metabolic homeostasis and dysfunction.

Papers We are soliciting: We invite submissions that contribute to advancing our understanding of the genomics of metabolic diseases. We are interested in methodology, bench research, clinical research, and the novel use of stem cell research. This includes original research articles, reviews, and meta-analyses covering topics such as the following:

1. Gene–environment interactions influencing metabolic disease susceptibility and progression.
2. Epigenetic regulation of metabolic pathways and gene expression in response to environmental cues, such as diet, stress, and pollution.
3. Proteomic signatures associated with metabolic phenotypes and their modulation by environmental factors.
4. Metabolomic profiling of metabolic disease biomarkers and their interaction with genetic and environmental determinants.

Through this thematic issue, we aim to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and facilitate the dissemination of state-of-the-art research findings, ultimately paving the way for personalized interventions and precision medicine strategies for metabolic diseases.

Prof. Dr. Eron Manusov
Dr. Vincent P. Diego
Prof. Dr. Sarah Williams-Blangero
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• GxE
• metabolic syndrome
• transcriptomics
• proteomics
• GWAS
• obesity
• epigenetics
• environment
• lipdomics
• stem cells