Brain architecture is crucially shaped during the first years of life, a period of great opportunity and vulnerability. The social experiences lived in this early period can leave lasting marks on the brain, with lifelong impacts. Epigenetics, the study of chemical modifications to DNA that alter gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence, has provided important insights into how these early experiences are “remembered” by the organism.
Hoffmann and Spengler (2012) highlight the role of DNA methylation, a key epigenetic modification, as a potential mechanism to explain how social experiences in childhood are incorporated into developing brain circuits. Positive experiences, such as adequate maternal care, can lead to the activation of genes that promote healthy brain development and resilience to stress. On the other hand, adverse experiences, such as abuse or neglect, can induce epigenetic modifications that increase the risk of mental and physical health problems throughout life.
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, responsible for the stress response, is particularly sensitive to epigenetic influences during development. Studies in rodents have shown that inadequate maternal care can lead to changes in DNA methylation in genes related to the HPA axis, resulting in an exaggerated response to stress in adulthood (Hoffmann & Spengler, 2012).
Although much remains to be discovered about the epigenetic mechanisms involved in memory of early social experiences, current evidence suggests that DNA methylation plays a crucial role in the formation of lasting “memories” that shape brain development and health throughout life. life.
Reference :
HOFFMANN, A; SPENGLER, D. DNA memories of early social life. Neuroscience, vol. 211, p. 1-12, 2012.
