Epigenetic pathways in PTSD: how traumatic experiences leave their signature on the genome

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Editorial

31 July 2014

How Traumatic Experiences Leave Their Signature on the Genome: An Overview of Epigenetic Pathways in PTSD

Tania L. Roth

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10 citations

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3

Tania L Roth

University of Delaware

David M Diamond

University of South Florida

Karestan Koenen

School of Public Health, Harvard University

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Epidemiological evidence supports a role for gene-environmental interactions in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Because environmental exposure to trauma is an etiological factor necessary for the development of PTSD, understanding the molecular mechanisms by which genes respond to traumatic stress may provide insight into the development and life-long persistence of PTSD symptoms. Emerging evidence suggests that DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNA regulation, and alternative splicing of mRNA provide an epigenetic means by which chronic stress and traumatic experiences alter gene expression to produce long-term changes in neuroanatomy, physiology and behavior. This research topic will focus on epigenetic components of PTSD, and highlight translational research including common measures and outcomes of stress and trauma found in animal, civilian and military research. We will also consider observational and epidemiologic studies that support epigenetic transmission of stress-related phenotypes. We aim to provide a forum for experts in the field to present novel research findings, methodology, opinions, hypotheses and critical reviews that address how traumatic stress interacts with the genome.

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Editors

Tania L Roth

University of Delaware

David M Diamond

University of South Florida

Karestan Koenen

School of Public Health, Harvard University

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200,046 Total views

147,035 Article views

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Published In

Frontiers in Psychiatry

Molecular Psychiatry

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