2.1.3. Molecular Techniques and Their Contribution to Understanding Programming

Even when the precise mechanisms of early programming of such diseases later in life has not yet been fully understood, molecular studies can offer the opportunity to dive in depth. The molecular era allowed for the capacity to perform rapid nucleic acid sequencing and microarray studies, as well as other molecular techniques and has provided the potential for far more understanding of developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) [9].

There is now a growing literature concerning the role of epigenetics in DOHaD, the majority of which has been carried out in experimental models, particularly in rodents. The degree of adiposity in adult life has been correlated with changes in methylation of DNA at birth or early in life, suggesting that epigenetic markers might be sought as a predictor [15].

The microbiome and its contribution to health and disease have recently been of interest to the scientific community. It has been suggested that the microbiome influences postnatal programming and obesity. Increasingly, the concept that it may play a role in DOHaD seems appealing [16].
