DNA Changes and Epigenetic Alteration

As parents, we have a huge responsibility to provide a nurturing environment for our children. A recent study done by a team of scientists at McGill University shows that trauma, stress, abuse during gestation and childhood can alter the genetic structure and function of the brain. Known as "epigenetic alterations," these changes in DNA can predispose the child to anxiety, stress, anger and aggression.

Studies of the brain tissues of suicide victims have shown that those who were traumatized during childhood showed marked changes in the genetic functions of the brain. What this means is their ability to cope with stress was significantly compromised.

Child psychiatrist Dr. John Strauss claims that the McGill study is significant in its attempt to bring to "psychiatric disorders a way of explaining potential gene-environment interactions."

It can lead to the creation of some kind of marker test that could be used to check individuals to see if they are more at risk (for suicide); it might aid identification of potential victims.

Strauss also said that such a test would also allow doctors to see if epigenetic changes that occurred as a result of early trauma had "switched back," which means that drugs or other therapy could be reduced in frequency or intensity.

The optimistic message from the study is that changes in the function of genes transformed by environmental factors are potentially reversible.

Toxic chemicals like lead, mercury and PCBs can alter the function of a person's genes and result in disease, including some cancers. A poor nurturing environment can just as seriously damage the genetic profile of a child.

More details can be accessed here.