Neval Burkay

Epigenetic Coaching Company,
United Kingdom

Abstract Title: Methylation Cycle and Genetic Variants in Pregnancy

Biography:

I graduated from the Nutrition and Dietetics department in June of 2023 with a High Honors. When I was studying on my education at university, I joined a certificate programme called Epigenetic Coaching. Then I started to study with Epigenetic Coaching team. I really interested in Epigenetics and Nutrigenetics so as a future plan, I plan on getting my Master’s Degree in in the field of this area. I am one of the trainers in Epigenetic Coaching team. I participate in training to explain “methylation cycles” and “nutrigenetics” topics. I participate in the research and development processes of personalized reports. I also work as a dietitian to provide counseling as an epigenetic coaches in the team. I am one of the members of Epigenetics and Nutrigenetics Organization. We organized 2nd International Congress of Epigenetics on September, 2023. I had oral presentation about “Evaluation of the effect of resveratrol’s role in epigenetic mechanisms on health”.

Research Interest:

Methylation Cycle and Genetic Variants in Pregnancy

The health and continuation of life starting in the womb greatly depend on the mother’s nutrition and environmental factors. Unfavorable environmental conditions and inadequate nutrition during this period can impact the child’s health later on. The Barker hypothesis, or Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD), explains the relationship between maternal nutrition during pregnancy and the child’s growth, development, and future chronic diseases. According to this hypothesis, inadequate nutrition of the fetus can lead to permanent physiological and structural changes, increasing the risk of disease later in life. This process is explained through epigenetic mechanisms, with DNA methylation being particularly important. Folate is an important vitamin during pregnancy because it plays a role in DNA methylation and can help reduce the occurrence of neural tube defects. Nutrients such as methionine, folate, choline, betaine, vitamin B12, B2, and B6 are important as methyl donors or cofactors for epigenetic modifications. Adequate intake of these nutrients is critical for fetal programming and healthy development. Genetic variants in the methylation cycle can alter the need for these nutrients.

In conclusion, understanding how our experiences starting in the womb affect our epigenome emphasizes the importance of nutrition and environmental factors for a healthy life. Therefore, adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy is of critical importance for the health of future generations.