Scientists say Phobias can Modify DNA and be Passed on

reply to post by Astyanax


Yes it was, epigenetically through hypomethylation.

Hypomethylation of DNA: a possible epigenetic mechanism involved in tumor promotion.

NOTE: Just because the gene product is altered does NOT mean the gene is changed - that's the magic of epigenetics.

Also NOTE: LaMarck was wrong about some things but he accurately tracked the effects of industrial pollution on workers and their families. Geneticists/eugenicists have spent the past 200-odd years denying those damaging effects are real because no genetic mutations are found to explain them. Epigenetic mechanisms do, and substantiate some of LaMarck's work.

Genetics and molecular biology will not move forward as a science unless and until proponents drop their commitment to eugenics and the attendant notion of immutable genetic superiority and inferiority.

reply to post by FlyersFan


It is correct to say that phobias have epigenetic effects that can be passed on and inherited. The situation is equally disturbing but more hopeful - just as bad things that happen to us can change our gene expression, good things and thoughts can too. Potentially, this can give us a great deal of personal power. ...The trick is to not let the knowledge become yet another weapon used to "blame the victim." Better we should blame the perps that create the environments where bad things are bound to happen.