B3511 - Environment DNA methylation and risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia a novel two-sample MR study - 24/04/2020

B number: 
B3511
Principal applicant name: 
Aayah Nounu | The University of Bristol (United Kingdom)
Co-applicants: 
Title of project: 
Environment, DNA methylation and risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a novel two-sample MR study
Proposal summary: 

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most common cancer in children. Whilst a range of genetic abnormalities have been identified as crucial in disease initiation, these abnormalities alone are not sufficient for transformation. Maternal exposures during pregnancy such as smoking, or folate intake have the potential to impact on offspring DNA methylation. This epigenetic mark has also been shown to be altered in ALL. We have previously identified 5 CpG sites that have altered DNA methylation due to maternal smoking and folate intake and we aim to identify whether changes to DNA methylation at these sites affects risk of ALL.

Impact of research: 
The exact reasons and risk factors associated with childhood ALL is still not well understood. Through this analysis, we might be able to understand how maternal exposures during pregnancy may impact risk of ALL in offspring. This has the potential to be used in policy making, especially when advising mothers on smoking and folate intake during pregnancy.
Date proposal received: 
Monday, 20 April, 2020
Date proposal approved: 
Tuesday, 21 April, 2020
Keywords: 
Epidemiology, Cancer, Statistical methods, Mendelian randomisation