Genetic Markers Linked To PTSD

Statistics show that about 7 percent of Americans suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These individuals are also at risk of developing other health problems that can develop into issues with memory, insomnia, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

Now, a new study shows that besides a traumatizing event triggering the problem, there may also be a genetic link to PTSD. In the most recent research published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry, researchers targeted genetic markers of the condition to further investigate gene expression among people with the disease from others who did not have it. 

They used a method known as ‘system level' that involved a series of RNA transcriptome of blood specimen by the US Marines with and without the disease.

"With the comparison of the US Marines who had the symptoms and those who do not have the gene differences can be assessed," said senior study author from the University of Southamption, UK, in a news release. "In addition, the relationships among them and connection can be examined as well.

"Considering that PTSD is a complex disease, it is vital to measure the dynamic relationship so as to help in the PTSD pathology comprehension," he added.

The study results revealed how many PTSD markers are connected to interferon signals that are hardwired to innate mechanisms of the immune system.

Researchers used the sequence of RNA transcriptome to further analyze blood samples. From there, they worked to determine the specific set of genes that actually regulate the signaling of interferon and innate of the immune system that are also linked to having PTSD.

With future studies, researchers hope to establish new insights into just what causes the interferon stimulation before traumatizing events that lead to the health issue take place. Despite how little is known surrounding this problem, researchers said they found the study particularly intriguing as it backs up previous evidence surrounding changes regarding how peripheral blood could lead to pathological changes changes in the brain.