Epigenetic Modulation by Vitamin C and in Prenatal Depression: Implications for Offspring Health

Abstract

Prenatal depression is a prevalent mental health disorder that adversely affects maternal well-being and offspring health. Emerging evidence suggests that vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), a key antioxidant, may influence this process through the regulation of DNA methylation (DNAm)—a critical epigenetic mechanism governing gene expression. This review summarizes current research on the role of vitamin C in modulating DNAm and explores its potential to mitigate the intergenerational impacts of prenatal depression. We analyze findings indicating that vitamin C may alleviate depressive symptoms and improve offspring health outcomes via epigenetic pathways. Furthermore, we highlight existing research gaps and propose future directions for investigation. By elucidating the interplay between vitamin C, epigenetic regulation, and prenatal depression, this article aims to provide novel insights for developing nutritional strategies to enhance maternal mental health and promote offspring well-being.

Keywords

Vitamin C / Ascorbic acid / DNA methylation / Prenatal depression / Offspring health / Epigenetic regulation / TET enzyme / Maternal nutrition

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Funding

Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province(2025AFB830)

Joint Fund of Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Occupational Hazard Identification and Control(JF2024-G17)

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

The Author(s), under exclusive licence to the Huazhong University of Science and Technology