Nutrition-Based Paternal Influence on Gynecological Diseases in Female Offspring via Epigenetic Mechanisms

Studies have widely indicated that the composition of maternal nutrition and diets might affect offspring health later in life. Studies on paternal contribution to the offspring’s disease are relatively scarce but are an important subject to the field. Recent research has suggested that paternal factors influenced by nutrition have been implicated in the transgenerational heritage of health and diseases through epigenetic mechanisms. This review aims to explore the current state of knowledge on nutrition-based paternal impacts on gynecological disease through epigenetics, focusing on the transmission of cancer and metabolic diseases from father to female offspring. We will explore the various mechanisms by which epigenetic landmarks, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, are passed on through sperm and reprogrammed in the embryo, influencing offspring development and health. We will discuss the impacts of preconception paternal nutrition on two common cancer such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer in female offspring. Additionally, paternal overweight or obesity has been associated with increased risk of obesity in the offspring and compromised metabolic health, which may link to reproductive conditions such as infertility. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying non-genetic inheritance is crucial for elucidating the nutrition-mediated developmental origins of health and disease. This review highlights the mechanistic correlation between preconception paternal nutrition and female offspring gynecological health. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for additional research to establish evidence-based paternal nutrition consultation and guidelines aimed at optimizing reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes in couples planning to conceive.