Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-)
Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
5-1-2025
Disciplines
Biology
Advisor
Alexa Roemmich
Abstract
Epigenetics is the study of molecular modifications to DNA structure that do not impact the sequence of the DNA itself. This biological study works to link health outcomes later in life with environmental interactions that affect our genetic predispositions. These complex factors can greatly impact longevity and quality of life. DNA methylation is one type of epigenetic mark that happens through natural biological processes. However, this marking has been shown to be detrimental to the process of aging and can be accelerated by harmful exposures such as stress, substance-use, or chemicals in the environment. Exposure to these compounds is exasperated by various Social Determinants of Health, or non-medical factors that influence wellbeing; things such as income, ethnicity, and education levels. Indigenous communities are one of many historically marginalized groups that experience various health disparities, especially in more rural locations. Epigenetic research has indicated that DNA methylation may help demonstrate how social adversity affects health disparity and help provide proof of harm of these social determinants of health on the body. By reviewing correlations of health inequity and DNA methylation within Indigenous communities, this paper aims to summarize what experiments have been done to link methylation status to health outcomes in Indigenous communities, to look critically at inequalities that negatively impact the health of Indigenous populations, and finally to propose possible practices to mitigate biological harm by allocating resources to areas of need.
Recommended Citation
Martin, Ella, "Risky Genes: The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on DNA Methylation in Indigenous Communities" (2025). Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-). 292.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/ur_cscday/292
