Stress can affect RNA

A new study done by the University of Zurich, has found that traumatic experiences, early in life, may change the RNA of mice. It has been found that certain behavioral traits such as depression and anxiety can be present for many generations.  Another finding was that in the F1 generation, the sperm contained high levels of 5 different microRNAs, one of which is associated with  stress.  To test if this was related to social factors, the scientists injected the isolated RNA into eggs of mice that had not be affected.  The results were that this generation as well as their offspring were affected with depression.  The next step the scientists are looking at is if this is also true for humans.  This study can be found in Nature Neuroscience.