Epigenetic Mechanisms and the Stress Response
Recent research has suggested that epigenetic mechanisms, and in particular DNA methylation, may be responsible for long term changes in mammalian behavior after trauma or stressful experiences. DNA methylation often shuts down local gene expression by inhibiting the binding of transcription-related proteins, or by recruiting proteins, such as MECP2, which repress transcription. Since DNA methylation is very stable, this would be an effective mechanism to induce long term changes in gene transcription in the brain, leading to changes in behavior. Our ongoing projects in this field are examining the roles for epigenetic enzymes, including DNMTs (DNA methyltransferases), and changes in the DNA methylation of specific stress-related genes, including CRF, in the development of psychopathological behavior induced by traumatic experiences. One of the main goals of this project is to understand which epigenetic marks, or enzymes, may facilitate resiliency to stress, as well as to reduce our baseline anxiety behavior.
