Genetic and epigenetic susceptibility to early life infection

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review aims to interpret the current literature on the role of genetic and epigenetic factors in susceptibility to neonatal infection, a leading cause of early life mortality and morbidity. RECENT FINDINGS: Epidemiological data indicate that the differential susceptibility to infection is partly heritable. To date there have been relatively few studies on genetic determinants of susceptibility to neonatal infection and many of these have methodological shortcomings. Most studies predominantly focus on the innate immune system. There is growing interest in the potential role of epigenetic mechanisms in disease susceptibility and data are emerging on the role of epigene..