Oxytocin receptor gene methylation in male and female PTSD patients and trauma-exposed controls

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops in about 10% of people that have been exposed to a traumatic event, such as a life-threatening accident, war or abuse. PTSD is characterized by intrusions of traumatic memories, avoidance of trauma-related cues, emotional numbing and negative affect, and hyperarousal (DSM-5). Heritability of PTSD is estimated between 30% and 50% (e.g. Stein et al., 2002) but environmental exposures play a major part; not only is trauma exposure a required precipitating factor for PTSD, but childhood adversity, life stress and social support also affect risk of PTSD development (Brewin et al., 2000).

Source: European Neuropsychopharmacology - November 8, 2018 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: L. Nawijn, I.M. Krzyzewska, M. van Zuiden, P. Henneman, S.B.J. Koch, A.N. Mul, J.L. Frijling, D.J. Veltman, M.M.A.M. Mannens, M. Olff Source Type: research