Regulatory epigenetic changes to genomic regions in the brain are essential for human cognition and mental health.
Researchers explore the link between childhood trauma and the increased risk of developing mental and physical health problems as adults.
Immune cells in the uterus and placenta of stressed pregnant mice were not activated, but researchers found increased levels of inflammation in the developing fetal brain. Additionally, prenatal stress led to reductions in gut microbial strains and functions, especially in those linked to inflammation.
Early life stress induces epigenetic modifications in D2-type medium spiny neurons in the nucleus accumbens, increasing the susceptibility to stress in adulthood.
From impairing nervous system function and changing bacterial communities in the microbiome to increasing oxidative stress and inflammation, researchers report on the ways in which exposure to chemical pollution harms the body.
Stress experienced by fathers during early life was associated with more rapid development of white matter tracts in his child's brain.
Infant children whose mothers experienced neglect when they were young showed altered brain circuitry in areas associated with anxiety and fear response.
Researchers used epigenetic modulators to reduce the damage done by stress to neuroplasticity. Findings reveal acute intervention in epigenetic mechanisms produced antidepressant effects more rapidly than conventional medications.
Focusing on gene changes as a result of epigenetic processes, such as aging, researchers were able to reverse elevated levels of harmful genes associated with memory deficits in Alzheimer's disease.
Stress in women either before or during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm birth and accelerate aging in their offspring.
PBDEs, common flame retardants found on household furniture, caused an increased risk of diabetes in mice only exposed to the chemicals through their mother's milk. In addition to increased glucose intolerance, researchers also noted higher levels of endocannabinoid in the livers of the offspring of mice exposed to PBDEs.
Using brain tissue samples, researchers have identified a new epigenetic clock for brain aging. The study reveals how the epigenetic clock could provide insight into accelerated brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders.
