Translational Perspective on Epigenetics in Cardiovascular Disease

A plethora of environmental and behavioral factors interact, resulting in changes in gene expression and providing a basis for the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Heterogeneity in gene expression responses among cells and individuals involves epigenetic mechanisms. Advancing technology allowing genome-scale interrogation of epigenetic marks provides a rapidly-expanding view of the complexity and diversity of the epigenome. In this review, we discuss the expanding landscape of epigenetic modifications and highlight their importance for our future understanding of disease. The epigenome provides a mechanistic link between environmental exposures and gene expression profiles ultimately leading to disease. We discuss the current evidence for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance and summarize the data linking epigenetics to cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, we review the potential targets provided by the epigenome for the development of future diagnostics, preventive strategies, and therapy for cardiovascular disease. Finally, we provide some suggestions for future directions.