Epigenomic mediation after adverse childhood experiences: a systematic review and meta-analysis

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2021

Authors

Neves, I (Author) Other; Ricardo Jorge Dinis Oliveira (Author) FMUP; Teresa Magalhães (Author) FMUP

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: Forensic Sciences Research

Vol. 6

Pages: 103-114

ISSN: 2471-1411

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 9 Citations

Scopus - 8 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Q-ZSZ

DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2019.1641954

Abstract (EN): Epigenetic mechanisms are potential mediators of the physiological response to abuse by altering the genetic predisposition of the cellular response to the environment, leading to changes in the regulation of multiple organ systems. This study was established to review the epigenetic mechanisms associated with childhood abuse as well as the long-term determinants that these epigenetic changes may have on future illness. We retrospectively analysed the effect of exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs, specifically those relating to childhood maltreatment) between the ages of 0 and 16 years on the human epigenome, as well as possible clinical associations. After meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, 36 articles were included in this systematic review. Eight of these studies did not find a relationship between childhood maltreatment and DNA methylation. Of the remaining 28 studies, nine were genome-wide association studies, whereas the rest were candidate gene studies, mainly studying effects on neuroendocrine, serotoninergic and immunoregulatory systems. Meta-analysis of correlation coefficients from candidate gene studies estimated an association of childhood adversity and DNA methylation variation at r = 0.291 (P< 0.0001), and meta-analysis of two epigenome-wide association studies (EWASs) identified 44 differentially methylated CpG sites. In conclusion, childhood maltreatment may mediate epigenetic mechanisms through DNA methylation, thereby affecting physiological responses and conferring a predisposition to an increased risk for psychopathology and forensic repercussions. Similar evidence for somatic illnesses is not yet available.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 12