Exploring the Lifelong Impact of Trauma on Our DNA

Trauma is an unfortunate reality for many people, and its effects can last for generations. Recent research has shown that our genetic makeup may be affected by trauma in ways that go beyond mutations to the genetic code. This phenomenon, known as epigenetic inheritance, can be caused by events that happen in a person’s lifetime and are passed down to future generations. In this blog post, we will explore how trauma can leave a lasting imprint on our DNA and its impact on subsequent generations.

Understanding the Epigenetic Impact of Trauma

Traumatic experiences can have a profound effect on children and grandchildren, which is known as the process of epigenetics. Epigenetics is the study of how changes in the environment can modify the way that genes are expressed, without changing the underlying DNA code itself. Tiny chemical tags can be added to or removed from DNA, depending on environmental factors like stress, diet, or exposure to toxins.

If epigenetic changes acquired during life can be passed on to later generations, the implications would be huge. Recent research has suggested that the effects of trauma can reverberate down the generations through epigenetics. For example, the sons of veterans who were prisoners of war (PoWs) had an 11% higher mortality rate than the sons of non-PoW veterans, mainly due to higher rates of cerebral hemorrhage. The most plausible explanation for this higher mortality rate is an epigenetic effect, triggered by the traumatic experiences of the PoW fathers, and passed on to their sons through changes in the way that genes are expressed.

Overall, understanding the epigenetic impact of trauma is a complex and rapidly evolving area of research. By studying how trauma affects the way that genes are expressed, we may be able to develop new strategies for preventing and treating mental health disorders that are associated with traumatic experiences.

The Science Behind Epigenetic Inheritance

 The science behind epigenetic inheritance refers to how environmental factors, such as trauma, can affect gene expression. Gene expression refers to how often or when proteins are created from the instructions within genes. Epigenetic changes affect gene expression by turning genes “on” and “off.” There are different types of epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA. DNA methylation refers to the addition of a methyl group to DNA, which can silence gene expression. Histone modification refers to changes in the proteins around which DNA is wrapped, which can also affect gene expression. Non-coding RNA refers to RNA molecules that do not produce proteins but can still affect gene expression.

Epigenetic changes can have a significant impact on health. For example, studies have shown that Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis, can affect the IL-12B gene, which is involved in the body’s immune response. DNA methylation can occur in response to infection, and in the case of tuberculosis, this can result in the silencing of the IL-12B gene, leading to a weakened immune response. This example highlights how epigenetic changes can affect health and potentially be passed on to future generations. Understanding epigenetic inheritance can help us better understand the impact of trauma and other environmental factors on gene expression and health.

Case Study: Inter-Generational Trauma and Epigenetics

To fully understand the impact of trauma on our DNA, we need to look at how it is passed down through generations. Inter-generational trauma is the term used to describe the transmission of trauma-related behaviors and emotions from parents to their offspring.

Understanding why epigenetic changes occur is an important step in alleviating the effects of intergenerational trauma. The good news is that epigenetic changes can be reversed, with only about 5% being permanent. According to Dr. Hymie Anisman, “But if I put him in a really great supportive environment with lots of friends and people taking care of him, those epigenetic changes can be undone.”

One example of intergenerational trauma can be seen in the indigenous community in Canada. Many original survivors of residential schools raised their children with harmful behaviors they witnessed in residential schools. As one Elder noted, “What residential schools did was it took the sweetness out of our families. You know, hugging your children is a sin; hugging your sister or brother is a sin.”

To help break the cycle of inter-generational trauma, the Strengthening Families Program aims to foster a positive connection between parents and their children. The program encourages positive reinforcement rather than punishment. By helping families form positive relationships, the program hopes to help prevent the transmission of trauma-related behaviors and emotions.

Epigenetic inheritance is still a relatively new area of study, but it has the potential to provide us with important insights into the ways trauma can impact our DNA. By continuing to explore this area of research, we can work towards a future where intergenerational trauma is no longer passed down from one generation to the next.

How Trauma Affects Epigenetic Changes in DNA

Trauma can have a profound effect on how our DNA is expressed through epigenetic changes. When a traumatic event occurs, the body reacts by releasing stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can cause epigenetic modifications to the DNA. These modifications can then be passed down through generations, potentially leading to long-lasting changes in behavior and health outcomes.

Studies have shown that children of Holocaust survivors have higher rates of anxiety and depression, despite not directly experiencing the trauma themselves. This phenomenon is known as intergenerational trauma and can be attributed to epigenetic changes in DNA.

Additionally, studies have also shown that early life stress, such as childhood abuse, neglect, or poverty, can also cause epigenetic changes. These changes can affect the expression of genes related to stress response and emotional regulation, potentially leading to an increased risk of mental health issues later in life.

Overall, the impact of trauma on epigenetic changes in DNA is still an emerging area of research. However, the potential implications for mental health and wellness are significant. Understanding how trauma affects our DNA and how these changes can be passed down through generations could lead to new interventions and therapies for those who have experienced trauma.–MM

https://www.research.va.gov/currents/1016-3.cfm

https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/epigenetics.htm

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190326-what-is-epigenetics?zephr-modal-register