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Eur J Pediatr Surg 2000; 10: 9-12
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1072405
Original article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

The Study of Neural Tube Defects After the Human Genome Project and Folic Acid Fortification of Foods

W. D. Graf , O. E. Oleinik
  • Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Development, University of Washington,
    School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Publication History

Publication Date:
25 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The implementation of folic acid fortification will eliminate a proportion of neural tube defects (NTD). As a result, the etiologic and clinical profiles of the developmental disorder may both change. In the assessment of NTD as it evolves, the bioinformatics structure and content of the Human Genome Project will find vital application. One important development will be an enhanced understanding of the role of folic acid in global regulation of gene expression through epigenetic processes. In addition, bioinformatics will facilitate coordination of research in the basic sciences with clinical investigations to better define remaining etiologic factors.

Key words

Neural tube defects - Etiology - Genetics - Epigenetic - Methylation - Classification - Development

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