In light of the known gene functions of BCL3 (pathogenesis of CVD and solid tumours)33,34,35, SLC1A5 (a glutamine transporter in various types of cancer development, progression and response to therapy)36 and PPP1R15A (neurological and CVD pathophysiology, as well as obesity and insulin resistance in animal models)37,38,39, it appears plausible that DNAm may play regulating roles in the development or progression of the respective diseases, which requires elucidation in future studies. Here, SLC1A5 is linked to obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.