The Raising of America Episode 5: DNA is Not Destiny

Episode 5 of the 5-part series The Raising of America

Fetal and early childhood experiences and environments – chemical, family, socio-economic – literally become part of us.  But how?

In DNA is Not Destiny McGill University's Michael Meaney and other scientists walk viewers through some of the classic experiments which revealed how disadvantage and adverse experiences, especially during gestation and the early years, can get under the skin by altering the molecular ‘volume controls’ or ‘dimmer switches’ called the epigenome which help regulate gene expression.

These changes to the epigenome are in turn associated with subsequent changes in the developing brain, with potential enduring consequences for emotional health and behaviors, cognitive functions, risk for obesity, even some cancers. 

Our genes don’t change.  But since the epigenome “listens” and responds to the environment, scientists are concluding that improved social conditions can actually provide the biological foundations for lives that are healthier and more likely to thrive.  And that’s good news.