Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 13, 2025
13:11
Optimized Analysis of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression from Small, Anatomically-defined Areas of the Brain
Published on: July 12, 2012
19.2K
Epigenetic mechanisms activated by childhood adversity
Bernardo J Krause1,2, Rocio Artigas2, Andres F Sciolla3
1Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de O''Higgins, Rancagua, Chile.
Epigenomics
|July 25, 2020
Summary
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) can lead to lasting health issues through epigenetic changes. Research shows ACE impairs immune function and may affect the brain, highlighting the need for further study.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Epigenetics
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are linked to long-term health deficits and reduced life expectancy.
- Early life stress may establish epigenetic modifications influencing lifelong health trajectories.
- Understanding these epigenetic mechanisms is crucial for addressing the impact of ACE.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on epigenetic programming of brain and immune functions due to ACE.
- To explore the role of epigenetics in the long-lasting effects of adverse childhood experiences.
- To identify challenges and future directions in ACE and epigenetics research.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of 88 articles.
- Articles were indexed in PubMed before August 2019.
- Focus on studies linking ACE with epigenetic modifications in brain and immune systems.
Main Results:
- Evidence partially supports epigenetic programming of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by ACE.
- Strong evidence indicates that ACE impairs immune function through epigenetic mechanisms.
- The review highlights the significant impact of ACE on immune system regulation.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications are a key mechanism linking ACE to long-term health consequences.
- ACE significantly impacts immune function, with potential programming effects on the HPA axis.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of epigenetics in ACE, guiding future interventions.
More Related Videos
04:20Author Spotlight: Exploring Microglial Interactions with Stress-Response Circuitry Using the Limited Bedding and Nesting Model
Published on: July 12, 2024
2.3K
11:31Rapid Fractionation and Isolation of Whole Blood Components in Samples Obtained from a Community-based Setting
Published on: November 30, 2015
16.4K
Related Concept Videos
01:37Epigenetic Regulation
3.6K
Epigenetic changes alter the physical structure of the DNA without changing the genetic sequence and often regulate whether genes are turned on or off. This regulation ensures that each cell produces only proteins necessary for its function. For example, proteins that promote bone growth are not produced in muscle cells. Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
X-chromosome...
X-chromosome...
3.6K
01:46Epigenetic Regulation
33.2K
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
33.2K
02:30Genomic Imprinting and Inheritance
36.5K
Diploid organisms inherit genetic material through chromosomes from both parents. Copies of the same gene are known as alleles. In most cases, both alleles are simultaneously expressed and allow various cellular processes to function optimally. If one of the alleles is missing or mutated, the expression of the other allele can compensate; however, this is not true for all genes.
The expression of some genes depends on which parent passed the gene to the offspring, through a phenomenon known as...
The expression of some genes depends on which parent passed the gene to the offspring, through a phenomenon known as...
36.5K
01:20Gene-Environment Interactions
933
Gene expression is a dynamic process that is significantly influenced by environmental factors. This interaction underlies the complex nature of biological development and the phenotypic differences observed among individuals, even among those with identical genetic makeups. Factors such as radiation, temperature, behavior, nutrition, and stress play pivotal roles in determining how genes are expressed. The concept of the reaction range is central to understanding this interaction. It posits...
933
01:28Human Genetics
1.3K
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
1.3K
03:17Inheritance of Chromatin Structures
7.1K
Epigenetics is the study of inherited changes in a cell's phenotype without changing the DNA sequences. It provides a form of memory for the differential gene expression pattern to maintain cell lineage, position-effect variegation, dosage compensation, and maintenance of chromatin structures such as telomeres and centromeres. For example, the structure and location of the centromere on chromosomes are epigenetically inherited. Its functionality is not dictated or ensured by the underlying...
7.1K