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Interplay between social experiences and the genome: epigenetic consequences for behavior.
1Department of Psychology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
Advances in Genetics
|August 21, 2012
Summary
Social experiences alter gene regulation via epigenetic modifications, influencing neuroendocrine and behavioral outcomes. These changes can even be passed across generations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Social experiences profoundly impact biological processes and phenotypic diversity.
- Gene regulation variations mediate the interaction between DNA and environmental influences.
- Epigenetic modifications are key molecular pathways altering gene transcription without changing DNA sequence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence linking epigenetic factors to biobehavioral outcomes from social experiences.
- To discuss the role of epigenetics in social behavior variation.
- To explore the implications of epigenetics for intergenerational trait transmission.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on epigenetic modifications.
- Focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications.
- Analysis of studies on postnatal and adult social experiences.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic factors like DNA methylation and histone modifications link social experiences to altered neuroendocrine and behavioral outcomes.
- Epigenetic mechanisms contribute to variations in social behavior.
- Evidence suggests epigenetic changes can influence trait transmission across generations.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications serve as a crucial mechanism connecting social experiences to long-term biological and behavioral changes.
- Understanding epigenetics is vital for explaining individual differences in social behavior and heritability.
- Epigenetic research offers insights into how environmental influences can shape traits across generations.
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