The Influence of Metabolic Syndrome and Sex on the DNA Methylome in Schizophrenia.

Introduction: The mechanism by which metabolic syndrome occurs in schizophrenia is not completely known; however, previous work suggests that changes in DNA methylation may be involved which is further influenced by sex. Within this study, the DNA methylome was profiled to identify altered methylation associated with metabolic syndrome in a schizophrenia population on atypical antipsychotics.

Methods: Peripheral blood from schizophrenia subjects was utilized for DNA methylation analyses.

Gene-specific DNA methylation may mediate atypical antipsychotic-induced insulin resistance.

Objectives: Atypical antipsychotics (AAPs) carry a significant risk of cardiometabolic side effects, including insulin resistance. It is thought that the insulin resistance resulting from the use of AAPs may be associated with changes in DNA methylation. We aimed to identify and validate a candidate gene associated with AAP-induced insulin resistance by using a multi-step approach that included an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) and validation with site-specific methylation and metabolomics data.

DNA methylation, insulin resistance and second-generation antipsychotics in bipolar disorder.

Aims: This study aimed to assess the effect of second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) use and insulin resistance on a global measure of DNA methylation in patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Materials & Methods: Subjects stable on medication (either mood stabilizer monotherapy or adjuvant SGAs) were assessed for insulin resistance. Global methylation levels were assessed in leukocyte DNA from whole blood using the Luminometric Methylation Assay.