Prominent Genetic Variants and Epigenetic Changes in Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Among Combat Veterans

Overview

Journal Mol Biol Rep

Specialty Molecular Biology

Date 2024 Feb 23

PMID 38393604

Authors

Ahmadali Baghaei

Mojtaba Yousefi Zoshk

Mohsen Hosseini

Hossein Fasihi

Ehsan Nassireslami

Sevda Shayesteh

Reza Laripour

Aynaz Eslami Amoli

Reza Heidari

Mohsen Chamanara

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most widespread and disabling psychiatric disorders among combat veterans. Substantial interindividual variability in susceptibility to PTSD suggests the presence of different risk factors for this disorder. Twin and family studies confirm genetic factors as important risk factors for PTSD. In addition to genetic factors, epigenetic factors, especially DNA methylation, can be considered as a potential mechanism in changing the risk of PTSD. So far, many genetic and epigenetic association studies have been conducted in relation to PTSD. In genetic studies, many single nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified as PTSD risk factors. Meanwhile, the variations in catecholamines-related genes, serotonin transporter and receptors, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, inflammatory factors, and apolipoprotein E are the most prominent candidates. CpG methylation in the upstream regions of many genes is also considered a PTSD risk factor. Accurate identification of genetic and epigenetic changes associated with PTSD can lead to the presentation of suitable biomarkers for susceptible individuals to this disorder. This study aimed to delineate prominent genetic variations and epigenetic changes associated with post-traumatic stress disorder in military veterans who have experienced combat, focusing on genetic and epigenetic association studies.

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