Title: Racial and ethnic representation in epigenomic studies of preterm birth: a systematic review.

Authors: Collier, Ai-Ris Y; Ledyard, Rachel; Montoya-Williams, Diana; Qiu, Maylene; Dereix, Alexandra E; Farrokhi, Minou Raschid; Hacker, Michele R; Burris, Heather H

Published In Epigenomics, (2021 11)

Abstract: Aim: We conducted a systematic review evaluating race/ethnicity representation in DNA methylomic studies of preterm birth. Data sources: PubMed, EMBASE, CINHAL, Scopus and relevant citations from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2019. Study appraisal & synthesis methods: Two authors independently identified abstracts comparing DNA methylomic differences between term and preterm births that included race/ethnicity data. Results: 16 studies were included. Black and non-Hispanic Black deliveries were well represented (28%). However, large studies originating from more than 95% White populations were excluded due to unreported race/ethnicity data. Most studies were cross-sectional, allowing for reverse causation. Most studies were also racially/ethnically homogeneous, preventing direct comparison of DNA methylomic differences across race/ethnicities. Conclusion: In DNA methylomic studies, Black women and infants were well represented. However, the literature has limitations and precludes drawing definitive conclusions.

PubMed ID: 33264049

MeSH Terms: Epigenomics; Ethnicity/genetics; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Premature Birth*/genetics