Systems biology insights into the molecular drivers of childhood stunting and implications for intervention

Authors

• Genevieve Dable-Tupas, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• Ariane Blanch A. Maraon, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• Lorraine Joy L. Bernolo, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• Nelly Grace F. Toñacao, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• April Dawn M. Taylaran, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• Maria Angelica C. Plata, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• Jason C. Alcano, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
• Richelle D. Björvang, Uppsala Universitet
• Shamsul Mohd Zain, Universiti Malaya
• Vladimer Kobayashi, Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University
• Melkamu Berhane Arefayine, Universiteit Ghent, Faculteit Geneeskunde en Gezondheidswetenschappen
• Alemayehu Teklu Toni, University of Gondar
• Jacus S. Nacis, Wageningen University & Research
• Gerard Bryan Gonzales, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.

Document Type

Review

Publication Date

1-1-2026

Abstract

Childhood stunting is a condition resulting from chronic malnutrition affecting millions globally, with lasting consequences for growth, cognition, and productivity. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying stunting, focusing on evidence obtained from systems biology to uncover biochemical pathways and potential biomarkers for early detection and targeted interventions. Key findings highlight the role of disrupted pathways such as the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway, one-carbon metabolism, and chronic inflammation associated with environmental enteric dysfunction and dysbiosis of the gut microbiome. These insights emphasize the multifactorial nature of stunting, influenced by nutrition, infections, socioeconomic and maternal factors. Integrating systems biology to support public health strategies may provide avenues for precision nutrition-driven interventions that address specific deficiencies and systemic biochemical disturbances.

Publication Title

Frontiers in Nutrition

DOI

10.3389/fnut.2026.1761376

Recommended Citation

Dable-Tupas, Genevieve; Maraon, Ariane Blanch A.; Bernolo, Lorraine Joy L.; Toñacao, Nelly Grace F.; Taylaran, April Dawn M.; Plata, Maria Angelica C.; Alcano, Jason C.; Björvang, Richelle D.; Zain, Shamsul Mohd; Kobayashi, Vladimer; Arefayine, Melkamu Berhane; Toni, Alemayehu Teklu; Nacis, Jacus S.; and Gonzales, Gerard Bryan, "Systems biology insights into the molecular drivers of childhood stunting and implications for intervention" (2026). Research Publications (2026 to 2030). 370.
https://knova.um.edu.my/research_publications_2026_2030/370

Volume

13