Can trauma be inherited epigenetically?

Transgenerational passage of trauma or predisposition to fear and trauma is a scientifically debated issue. Recent studies support the idea that humans can inherit a predisposition to trauma or fear, suggesting that this does not necessarily mean one will become traumatized or experience extreme fear; rather, it is a bias or predisposition towards certain types of fear which may differ from the events experienced by one's parents or grandparents. For instance, certain gene polymorphisms, such as FKBP5, associated with the glucocorticoid system and cortisol release, might modulate this predisposition. These findings suggest that it is a predisposition toward a heightened level of responsivity to fearful events rather than a direct inheritance of specific traumas 1.

In another conversation, Dr. David Linden and Andrew Huberman discussed the evidence for and against transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals. While conclusive evidence in mammals remains sparse, Linden noted that it has been demonstrated more convincingly in other organisms, such as worms and plants. Therefore, while there's interest and ongoing research in this area, the current scientific consensus in mammals isn't firmly established 2.

Thus, while not absolute and still requiring further research for conclusive evidence in humans, there's some indication that trauma or certain predispositions can be transmitted across generations through mechanisms that might involve epigenetic changes.