Överkalix study

Study on transgenerational epigenetic inheritance

Överkalix Study

The Överkalix Study is a pioneering research project that investigates the effects of environmental factors on the health and longevity of subsequent generations. Conducted in the small town of Överkalix, located in northern Sweden, this study has provided significant insights into the field of epigenetics, particularly concerning the concept of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.

Map of Överkalix Municipality

Background

The study originated from the observation of historical records in Överkalix, which provided a unique opportunity to examine the long-term effects of environmental changes on human health. The region's isolated location and detailed archival records of harvests, famines, and population health allowed researchers to trace the impact of these factors across multiple generations.

Methodology

The Överkalix Study utilized historical data from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on the availability of food during the pre-pubertal period of the ancestors of the study participants. Researchers examined the records of harvests and food availability, correlating these with health outcomes in subsequent generations.

Findings

The study revealed that the nutritional status of grandparents, particularly during their pre-pubertal years, had a significant impact on the health and lifespan of their grandchildren. Specifically, it was found that:

• Grandsons of paternal grandfathers who experienced food abundance during their pre-pubertal years had a higher risk of mortality from diabetes.
• Conversely, grandsons of paternal grandfathers who experienced food scarcity during the same period had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

These findings suggest that environmental factors can influence gene expression in ways that affect not only the individual but also their descendants, supporting the concept of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.

Implications

The implications of the Överkalix Study are profound, as they challenge the traditional understanding of genetic inheritance. The study suggests that environmental factors, such as nutrition, can cause epigenetic changes that are passed down through generations, potentially affecting disease susceptibility and longevity.

Related pages

• Epigenetics
• Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance
• Genetic inheritance
• Public health