Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

Biomarkers in an Animal Model for Revealing Neural, Hematologic, and Behavioral Correlates of PTSD
Published on: October 10, 2012
Genetic Alterations in War-Related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review
Amir Hossein Rajabi1, Samaneh Zafarabadi2, Kimia Jazi3
1Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
Objectives:
This systematic review explored gene expression and DNA methylation patterns to identify key pathways and molecular targets associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly its war-related subtype.
Methods:
A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted using keywords related to PTSD, gene expression, and DNA methylation. Studies published between 2000 to 2024 involving adult military personnel with confirmed PTSD based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-5) criteria were included. Animal studies, psychological interventions, and pharmacological research were excluded. Only cross-sectional, case-control, or cohort studies utilizing blood, saliva, or brain tissue samples were considered. Data from 28 studies were extracted using a predefined framework, focusing on population characteristics, study design, and identified hub genes.
Results:
Key findings revealed the upregulation of immune-related genes (e.g., CCL4, NF-κB) and hypomethylation of inflammation-related genes. Downregulation of neurodevelopmental genes, such as Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) and Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (DSCAM), highlighted disruptions in synaptic plasticity. The identified pathways suggested potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for precision medicine approaches.
Conclusion:
This review highlighted the role of gene expression alterations in war-related PTSD. The identified genes might serve as candidates for personalized therapies. Further research is required to validate these findings and develop targeted interventions.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Psychological Responses to Stress
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Psychoneuroimmunology: Cardiovascular Disease
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events,...

