Epigenetics and Epidemiology of Lactase Persistence

In adult mammals, the inability to digest lactose due to lactase non-persistence or adult-type hypolactasia, is relatively common after the weaning stage.However, there is a fraction of the adult population who continue to exhibit lactase persistence, sparking the interest of many scientists.The epigenetics of lactase persistence and non-persistence differ greatly, as well as the factors affecting the genotype and phenotype.Other studies used genome editing technology, genomic DNA isolation, genomic DNA methylation analysis and more to investigate the factors determining the LCT gene expression.Here, analyzed field data highlighted these significant findings together to discuss the epigenetics of lactase non-persistence.This paper will review the epigenetics of lactase non-persistence and lactase persistence and the factors influencing expression and modification on a molecular level.Findings regarding nutritional and environmental factors, as well as differences in frequencies in various continents will also be displayed.The aim of this article is to deepen the understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms revolving around lactase non-persistence, factors like mutations in the -13910 allele, and analyze past and recent articles to inform on epigenetic targets and implications as future treatments.