francene--blog. Year 2013
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Dec 2nd

12/2/2013

 
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Previous generations' genetic memory can affect our behavior. Experts said the results of tests on animals were important for human phobia and anxiety research.

Animal experiments showed that a traumatic event could affect the DNA in sperm and alter the brains and behavior of subsequent generations.

A Nature Neuroscience study shows mice, trained to avoid the smell of cherry blossom, passed their aversion on in two subsequent generations.

The team at the Emory University School of Medicine, in the US, then looked at what was happening inside the sperm. A section of DNA responsible for sensitivity to the cherry blossom scent had been made more active in the mice's sperm. Both the mice's offspring, and their offspring, were extremely sensitive to cherry blossom and would avoid the scent, despite never having experiencing it in their lives.

Changes in brain structure were also found.


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The report concluded that the experiences of a parent, even before conceiving, markedly influence both structure and function in the nervous system of subsequent generations.

The findings provide evidence that the environment can affect an individual's genetics, which can in turn be passed on.

Prof Marcus Pembrey, from University College London, said the findings were "highly relevant to phobias, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders" and provided "compelling evidence" that a form of memory could be passed between generations.

This leads me to wonder if attitudes can be inherited along with smells. For instance, the aversion to walking alone in the dark. However, this could be affected by lessons learned and scary movies. What about racial discrimination? Is this learned or passed down the generations through word of mouth?

I have no racial discrimination, despite never seeing another race until I was in my mid-thirties. Adelaide, South Australia, consisted of mainly English people. My first sight of Aboriginals gave me a sense of wonder. Then, twenty years on when I arrived in England, I gazed with fascination at West Indian women in their colorful clothing and bright golden jewelry whenever I rode on the Tube. As you can see, I had no background to judge other races.

I've got to admit that racial prejudice is rife amongst many normal English people. However, I think the attitude could be taken from their parents rather than their genes.

I used to have a phobia with my first husband, much as I told myself to ignore the rippling in my back each time we were close. Despite loving him, the fear would rise each time--he would stab me in the back. I can remember the spot thirty years later--under the ribcage to the right. After his betrayal, we separated, and the feeling left me. Somehow, I've decided this is a lingering memory from another life. I dreamed once of a flag associated with him--the crescent moon and two stars. Scary.

Well, scientists, on with the phobia and anxiety research.


suzanna link
12/1/2013 06:11:13 pm

Wow this was really interesting. Amazing the things we pass on to our children.

Francene Stanley link
12/1/2013 06:14:52 pm

Makes you think. doesn't it?

suzanna link
12/1/2013 06:18:01 pm

Make you wonder whether your memories are your own or whether they belong to someone else!

Pixie Willow
12/1/2013 06:42:42 pm

I so love your blog, I always learn something when I visit you. Another awesome post xxx

Francene Stanley link
12/1/2013 07:22:46 pm

Thanks, Pixie. Glad I've gained your attention and that you enjoy what your read.

katherine bartlett
12/1/2013 06:50:13 pm

I never knew all of these things!

Francene Stanley link
12/1/2013 07:23:39 pm

Especially my life experiences. ;-)

Sophie Bowns link
12/1/2013 07:53:32 pm

This is fascinating Francene!
I always feel like I have learnt something after reading your posts :)

Roy A Ackerman, PHD, EA @ Cerebrations.biz link
12/1/2013 08:59:48 pm

Even if discrimination were enhanced (detrimented?) by genetic encoding, that is the sort of behavior that is clearly taught by parent to child... And, that certainly reinforces such negative behavior...

To some degree, other phobias- including color aversion- has been shown to be taught...


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    Author

    Francene Stanley, author of many published novels. If you like my writing, why not consider purchasing one of my books? You'll see them on the sidebar below.
    Born in Australia, I moved to Britain half way through my long life.

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