AIM: To investigate the degree by which epigenetic signatures in children from mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are influenced by environmental factors.

METHODS: We profiled the DNA methylation signature of blood from lean, obese and GDM mothers and their respective newborns.

RESULTS: DNA methylation profiles of mothers showed high similarity across groups, while newborns from GDM mothers showed a marked distinct epigenetic profile compared with newborns of both lean and obese mothers. Analysis of variance in DNA methylation levels between newborns showed higher variance in the GDM group.

CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that environmental factors, rather than direct transmission of epigenetic marks from the mother, are involved in establishing the epigenetic signature associated with GDM.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Dnr 402-08.