Strengthening Rigor and Reproducibility in Epigenome-Wide Association Studies of Social Exposures and Brain-Based Health Outcomes

Purpose of Review: Studies examining the effects of social factors on the epigenome have proliferated over the last two decades. Social epigenetics research to date has broadly demonstrated that social factors spanning childhood adversity, to neighborhood disadvantage, educational attainment, and economic instability are associated with alterations to DNA methylation that may have a functional impact on health. These relationships are particularly relevant to brain-based health outcomes such as psychiatric disorders, which are strongly influenced by social exposures and are also the leading cause of disability worldwide. However, social epigenetics studies are limited by the many challenges faced by both epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) and the study of social factors. 

Findings: In this manuscript, we provide a framework to achieve greater rigor and reproducibility in social epigenetics research. We discuss current limitations of the social epigenetics field, as well as existing and new solutions to improve rigor and reproducibility. 

Summary: Readers will gain a better understanding of the current considerations and processes that could maximize rigor when conducting social epigenetics research, as well as the technologies and approaches that merit attention and investment to propel continued discovery into the future.