Sex-specific DNA methylation differences in people exposed to polybrominated biphenyl

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> Michigan residents were exposed to polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) when it was accidentally added to the food supply. Highly exposed individuals report sex-specific health problems, but the underlying biological mechanism behind these different health risks is not known. <b>Materials and methods:</b> DNA methylation in blood from 381 women and 277 men with PBB exposure was analyzed with the MethylationEPIC BeadChip. <b>Results:</b> 675 CpGs were associated with PBBs levels in males, while only 17 CpGs were associated in females (false discovery rate <0.05). No CpGs were associated in both sexes. These CpGs were enriched in different functional regions and transcription factor binding sites in each sex. <b>Conclusion:</b> Exposure to PBBs may have sex-specific effects on the epigenome that may underlie sex-specific adverse health outcomes.