"The Effect of Dietary Fiber on Epigenetic Regulation of Gene Expressio" by Isabelle Strack

Graduation Term

2021

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Department of Family and Consumer Sciences

Committee Chair

Jennifer Barnes

Abstract

Objective: More than 2/3 of those with kidney failure use hemodialysis as a treatment option. The purpose of this pilot study is to increase the understanding of the epigenetic changes that occur in hemodialysis patients through dietary fiber intake. Design and Methods: Gene expression through epigenetic changes of dietary fiber intake and soluble fiber intake were analyzed in this cross-sectional study. Data was collected from questionnaires and blood samples (n=20). Block Dialysis Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to calculate dietary fiber intake. Blood analysis counted the top 100 most prevalent microRNAs (miRNA). Pearson r correlation was used to determine level of significance (p-value < 0.05). Results: There was no significant relationship between BMI and fiber intake or length on dialysis (in months). There was a significant, positive relationship between dietary fiber intake and mir-886 (Pearson r = 0.68), mir-941-2 (Pearson r = 0.52), and mir-148b (Pearson r = 0.54). Soluble fiber intake and mir-886 had a significant, positive relationship (Pearson r = 0.66). There are 4 genes associated with mir-886, no genes associated with mir-941-2, and mir-148b has 19 genes strongly associated with it. Conclusion: Fiber intake affects the regulation of gene expression through altered miRNA production, thus fiber intake (epigenetic modifications) may serve as a potential treatment beneficial for hemodialysis patients despite dietary restrictions. Further research is needed to validify this research.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

DOI

https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2021.20210719070603184041.26

Included in

Nutrition Commons

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