Child abuse leaves its mark on DNA
Over the years, the science of genetics has given us insights into our health and behavior. A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience suggests that experience of abuse during childhood can leave scars on the genetic make up that last for life.
A previous study in rats revealed that baby rats reared by negligent or indifferent mothers had increased the amount of methyl compounds on a region of DNA that regulates the expression of a receptor for glucocorticoid hormones. Glucocorticoids play an important role in metabolism and stress management. The neglected baby rats had fewer receptors for glucocorticoid hormones than normal, thus affecting the animals’ ability to handle stress.
In another study, researchers at Montreal’s McGill University analyzed brain samples from people who had committed suicide. The research study revealed that suicide victims with a history of child abuse had a methylation pattern similar to that previously observed in the neglected rat pups. In addition, they also had fewer glucocorticoid receptors compared to those without history of abuse.
The findings of the study suggests that experience of abuse as a child leaves scars on the DNA that may fact stress management later in life. Several studies demonstrated that childhood experiences can affect adult behavior. The Canadian study is the first to demonstrate that the effect of abuse can go far down to the genetic level.
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Zoe from Get Potty Trained says...
This is a very interesting article, thanks for posting. It’s very sad to know that abused children will always leave an emotional and biological “burden”to them when it’s not even their fault.