Epigenetic Landscape of Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Dear Colleagues,

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Rett Syndrome, and Intellectual Disability arise from complex interactions between genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Epigenetic mechanisms—including DNA methylation, histone modifications, 3D genome architecture, and non-coding RNAs—are emerging as critical regulators of neurodevelopment and key mediators in the pathophysiology of NDDs.

This Special Issue aims to consolidate the latest findings on the intricate relationship between the epigenome and NDDs. The scope encompasses a broad range of topics, from fundamental molecular mechanisms to the identification of novel biomarkers and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

While the term epigenetics dates back to the 1940s, its profound significance in neuroscience has only been uncovered in recent decades. Seminal discoveries, such as the role of the MECP2 gene in Rett Syndrome, have paved the way for our current understanding of “chromatinopathies” and the epigenetic basis of many NDDs.

The field is rapidly advancing with state-of-the-art technologies like single-cell epigenomics and long-read sequencing, which are unraveling the cellular heterogeneity and complex regulatory networks in the brain. Current research also focuses on the role of environmental exposures, the gut–brain axis in modulating the epigenome, and the therapeutic potential of novel epigenetic-modifying drugs.

We welcome high-quality original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and perspective pieces. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Molecular studies on epigenetic regulators in neurodevelopment;
• Identification and validation of epigenetic biomarkers for NDDs;
• The impact of environmental factors (e.g., toxins, diet, stress) on the neuro-epigenome;
• Development of novel epigenetic therapies and diagnostic tools;
• Bioinformatic and systems biology approaches to understanding epigenetic data in NDDs;
• Studies on the role of non-coding RNAs and other novel epigenetic mechanisms in NDD pathogenesis.

Dr. Bimal Jana
Guest Editor

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