Visit the News Hub

Mouse study finds changes to DNA packaging form molecular memory of trauma, make brain vulnerable to future stress

Inside cells, DNA is coiled like a slinky. As the DNA slinky stretches and opens, genes are more easily accessible to be turned on. WashU Medicine researchers found that stress in early life stretches the genetic slinky, leaving a lasting effect on the brain that makes a person more vulnerable to stress later in life.

" data-large-file="https://medicine.washu.edu/app/uploads/2026/08/Creed-spring-take-2.gif"> Sara Moser/WashU Medicine Inside cells, DNA is coiled like a slinky. As the DNA slinky stretches and opens, genes are more easily accessible to be turned on.…