Work

Epigenetics of childhood trauma: Long term sequelae and potential for treatment

Year: 2021

Type: review

Abstract: Childhood trauma (CT) can have persistent effects on the brain and is one of the major risk factors for neuropsychiatric diseases in adulthood. Recent advances in the field of epigenetics suggest that epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, as well as regulatory processes involving non-coding RNA are associated with the long-term sequelae of CT. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the epigenetic basis of CT and describes studies in animal models and human subjects examining how the epigenome and transcriptome are modified by CT in the brain. It discusses psychological and pharmacological interventions that can counteract epigenetic changes induced by CT and the need to establish longitudinal assessment after CT for developing more effective diagnostics and treatment strategies based on epigenetic targets.

Source: Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews

DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.10.042

Authors: Kristina M. Thumfart, Ali Jawaid, Kristina Bright, Marc Flachsmann, Isabelle M. Mansuy

Institutions: University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Institute for Neuroscience, Instytut Biologii Doświadczalnej im. Marcelego Nenckiego

Language: English

Topic: Child Abuse and Trauma

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,340