Epigenetics: Behavioral Influences on Gene Function, Part II: Molecular Mechanisms

Abstract

This two-part series focuses on the influences of early maternal care on brain development and adult behavior. Specifically, we are interested in behavioral phenotypes established by epigenetic mechanisms (i.e., long-lasting changes in gene function that result from environmental influences). Part I describes the differences in the emotional, maternal, and cognitive behaviors of adult rodent offspring generated by the degree of maternal nurturing that they experience during the first week of life. 1 Ogren MP Lombroso PJ Epigenetics: behavioral influences on gene function, part I: maternal behavior permanently affects adult behavior in offspring. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2008; 47: 240-248 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (13) Google Scholar Animals exposed to a high degree of nurturing show a blunted response to stress, the females are more nurturing mothers, and they have better memories. Part II describes the molecular mechanisms thought to be responsible for these differences in the adult offspring, as well as the molecular mechanisms by which epigenetic effects are propagated from one generation to the next.