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Early life stress changes the way our genes function

Explore the lasting effects of early life stress on gene function, leading to major health issues like obesity, HPA axis dysfunctions, and more, delving into epigenetic implications and resiliency factors. Uncover the link between maternal care, epigenetic changes, and stress responses in individuals. Discover the potential reversibility of epigenetic changes through intervention methods. Learn about the interplay of genetics and environment in shaping health outcomes.

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Early life stress changes the way our genes function

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  1. Early life stress changes the way our genes function

  2. Pervasive and enduring effects of early life stress • Obesity (ANNA) • Neurodevelopmental delays • HPA axis dysfunction (stress) • Metabolic disorder • Cardiovascular disease • Immune system dysfunction • Major depressive disorder • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Cancer

  3. Child Abuse and NeglectACE study Vincent Fellitti Scientific Gaps

  4. “Nature” versus “Nurture”(Genetics versus environment) Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck

  5. DNA building blocks Can be chemically modified (the addition of a methyl group (-CH3)) by our environment, e.g. stress!!!!

  6. Epigenetics (environment determines activity of genes) ACTIVE GENE INACTIVE GENE e.g. a gene that reduces stress

  7. Filling in the scientific gaps -Studies on animal behavior (maternal care) -Studies of CAN victims (epigenome) Moshe Szyf Patrick McGowan Michael Meaney

  8. Epigenetic interference by maternal care • Behaviour of pup determined by care of mother. • This is reflected in the pup’s activity of genes. • Altering the epigenome (DNA-methylation) alters behaviour.

  9. HPA stress responsFight or flight respons GR Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) takes away the cortisol after the stress event. In stressed pups this receptor is less active due to methylation of this gene. Cortisol level remains high.

  10. What about CAN victims? • Chronic childhood stress alters the stress response by epigenetic changes (lifetime changes). • Many other genes are altered in the same way especially genes involved in the immune system, brain development, heart disease, cancer, psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. A high risk for Tom, Rita and Anna. • Epigenetic changes dueto stress canbetransmittedto the next generation.

  11. Good news! • Somechildren are resilientfor the effect of CAN (genetic, epigenetic). • Epigenetic changes are reversible in theory (Interferencethroughtmedication or cognitivetherapy). Writers, readers, erasers

  12. Take home message • Gene function is altered by childabuse and neglect. • This causes frequent major health problems throughout life.

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