epigenetic echoes violence genetic impact

Epigenetic Echoes: How Violence Imprints Lasting Genetic Marks on Future Generations

The 1982 Hama Massacre and Its Lasting Impact

In 1982, the Syrian government laid siege to Hama, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands during sectarian violence. Four decades later, the memory of this massacre fueled rebels' efforts to overthrow the Assad regime responsible for the brutal act.

Genetic Imprints of War: A Legacy Passed Down

Another enduring consequence of the attack lies within the genetic makeup of Syrian families. Grandchildren of women who were pregnant during the siege—despite never experiencing the violence firsthand—carry its imprint in their genomes.

Epigenetics and the Transmission of Trauma

Inherited through maternal lineage, this genetic signature provides the first human evidence of a phenomenon previously observed only in animals—the intergenerational transmission of stress at the molecular level.

"Recognizing that trauma and violence can impact future generations should foster greater empathy and encourage policymakers to prioritize addressing violence," said Connie Mulligan, Ph.D., Professor of Anthropology and the Genetics Institute at the University of Florida, and senior author of the study.

"This phenomenon may offer insight into the persistent intergenerational cycles of abuse, poverty, and trauma observed worldwide, including in the United States."

How Trauma Leaves a Molecular Mark

While our DNA remains uncharged by lived experiences, epigenetic processes enable its functional tuning. Stress and environmental stimuli can lead to chemical modifications that adjust gene activity, potentially aiding adaptation, though the extent of these effects remains unclear.

Investigating the Epigenetic Legacy in Syrian Families

The chemical indicators identified by Mulligan and her team were the key targets in their investigation of Syrian family genetics. Although lab-based research has shown that animals can inherit stress-induced epigenetic modifications, demonstrating this humans has remained elusive.

A Groundbreaking Study on Generational Trauma

Mulligan collaborated with:

• Rana Dajani, Ph.D., a molecular biologist at Hashemite University in Jordan
• Catherine Panter-Brick, Ph.D., an anthropologist at Yale University, to carry out this groundbreaking study.

The research focused on tracking three generations of Syrian immigrants in the country.

The study's results were published in the journal Scientific Reports.

Three Generations, Three Unique Experiences

Some families experienced the Hama attack before seeking refuge in Jordan, while others avoided Hama but endured the recent civil war against the Assad regime.

The researchers gathered samples from grandmothers and mothers who were pregnant during the two conflicts, along with their children. This approach allowed for the inclusion of individuals who had encountered violence at distinct developmental stages.

A Control Group for Comparison

A third group consisted of families who had settled in Jordan before 1980, thereby avoiding the prolonged violence in Syria. These early immigrants provided a vital control group for comparison with families affected by the civil war.

The Science Behind the Study

Dajani, herself the daughter of refugees, worked intimately with the refugee community in Jordan to build rapport and encourage study involvement. She eventually obtained cheek swabs from 138 participants across 48 families.

"These families are eager to share their stories and have their voices heard," Mulligan remarked. "I believe we collaborated with every eligible family for this study."

Analyzing DNA for Epigenetic Modifications

In Florida, Mulligan's lab analyzed DNA for epigenetic modifications, investigating potential correlations with the families' exposure to violence.

The Lasting Epigenetic Impact of Violence

Genetic Markers Found in Grandchildren of Hama Survivors

Among the grandchildren of Hama survivors, researchers identified 14 genomic regions that had undergone modifications in response to the vilence experienced by their grandmothers. These findings suggest that stress-induced epigenetic changes can be inherited across generations, similar to patterns observed in animals.

Epigenetics Signatures in Directly Affected Individuals

The research identified 21 epigenetic sites in individuals who had directly experienced violence in Syria. Additionally, the study found that those exposed to violence in utero exhibited signs of accelerated epigenetic aging, a biological process potentially linked to increased susceptibility to age-related diseases.

A Shared Epigenetic Response to Stress

The majority of these epigenetic modifications exhibited a consistent pattern following exposure to violence, indicating a shared epigenetic response to stress —one that may impact not only those directly affected but also their descendants.

Broader Implications: Beyond War and Refugees

"Our research is applicable beyond refugee experiences; it extends to various forms of violence, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, and gun violence in the U.S.," Mulligan emphasized. "This issue warrants further study and greater attention."

Epigenetics and Human Health Risks

The precise impact of these epigenetic modifications on individuals carrying them remains uncertain. However, some studies have suggested a correlation between stress-induced epigenetic alterations and conditions such as diabetes.

A well-known study on Dutch famine survivors from World War II suggested that their descendants exhibited epigenetic modification associated with a higher likelihood ob obesity. While many such changes may be inconsequential, some could potentially impact human health, Mulligan noted.

Resilience Amid Trauma: A Testament to Human Strength

As Mulligan and her colleagues meticulously investigated the enduring genetic imprint of war and trauma, they were equally moved by the resilience of the families they studied. According to Mulligan, their narrative extended far beyond mere survival.

A Story Beyond Survival

"Despite enduring immense violence, these families extraordinary resilience. They continue to build meaningful lies, raise children, and uphold traditions," Mulligan remarked. "Such perseverance may be a distinctly human trait."

Source

"How does violence leave a lasting mark on our DNA? Discover groundbreaking research on inherited trauma and epigenetic changes."

Read the full article to explore how stress and trauma impact genetic memory and many affect future generations.

• Learn more about epigenetics and health on Human Health Issues
• Stay updated on scientific breakthrough at FSNews365
• Explore the hidden impact of environmental and societal issues at Earth Day Harsh Reality

Read now and uncover the science behind genetic memory!