Pediatric genomics investigation at FMUSP Department of Pediatrics

Abstract

The susceptibility for developing chronic diseases in adult life, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases or behavioral disorders, depends in a large extension on the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in fetal life and early childhood. The investigation on how changes in pre and post natal environment modify gene function, leading to permanent metabolic alterations and disease susceptibility is nowadays the main target of pediatric genomics. The knowledge obtained in this area of medical research will render possible in a near future that specific intervention in early life stages may conduct to improvements in human health. This article reviews recent progresses in pediatric genomics and summarizes the activities of the FMUSP Department of Pediatrics in this area.