coled by Professor Rana Dajani, a professor of molecular biology and genetics at the Hashemite University of Jordan, has uncovered compelling evidence that trauma can leave epigenetic marks that persist across generations. The research, a collaboration between leading scientists across disciplines and geographies, sheds light on how experiences of violence and displacement may be biologically inherited, with profound implications for understanding human resilience and adaptation.

  The human genome doesn’t change though-out our lifetimes. But some life experiences may change how our genes are expressed. This is called epigenetic. These changes can help humans adapt to future environments.

The aim of this study was to explore whether these epigenetic changes can be transferred across generations. While it is known that epigenetic changes can be transferred across generations in animal models, it has not been possible to show in humans.

   The study was able to follow three generations of Syrian refugees. One group had been exposed to the 1982 massacre in Hama, the second group lived though the aggression of the Asad Regime in Syria. While the third group had emigrated to Jordan before 1980 and therefore served as the control group. Samples were collected from grandmothers, daughters and granddaughters of all three groups.

   Professor Dajani, worked with Dr. Connie Mulligan, a professor of anthropology and genetics at the University of Florida, and Dr. Catherine Panter-Brick, a professor of medical anthropology at Yale University, on this groundbreaking investigation into how trauma exposure during pregnancy may result in intergenerational epigenetic modifications. They were assisted by Dima Hamadmad, a Syrian researcher who organized and collected samples from the families.

    The study identified 14 DNA methylation sites associated with inherited trauma and 21 sites linked to direct exposure to violence. Notably, 32 of these sites demonstrated a consistent epigenetic signature across three different types of trauma exposure: germline, prenatal, and direct. These findings suggest that specific epigenetic markers serve as a biological record of violence, potentially shaping the physiological responses of future generations.

Although most DNA methylation marks are erased before birth, the research showed that some environmentally-sensitive epigenetic modifications can escape this reprogramming, providing an evolutionary mechanism for adaptation to environmental stressors, including psychosocial trauma.

    The study also highlights an accelerated epigenetic aging process associated with prenatal exposure to violence, emphasizing the vulnerability of in utero development. These findings are particularly urgent in light of the genocide in Gaza, where pregnant women are disproportionately affected.

This study is unique in its scope and execution, being the first to measure epigenetic signatures across three generations with internal controls in three distinct cohorts. It is also significant for its leadership—it was envisioned by Dr. Dajani, a scientist and community member who ensured direct access to affected families and the necessary research framework to establish definitive controls.

 

   Beyond its scientific contributions, the research challenges prevailing narratives around trauma. "Historically, trauma survivors have been framed as victims in need of rescue," Dr. Dajani noted. "Our findings suggest a different story—one of adaptation and resilience. Trauma-induced epigenetic changes may equip future generations with tools to navigate challenging environments, a phenomenon I term ‘my grandmother’s wisdom.’"

By reframing trauma research through a decolonized lens, this study calls for a shift in global discourse—one that prioritizes agency over victimhood and recognizes the resilience of displaced communities. The research team advocates for policies and interventions that acknowledge inherited trauma while fostering paths to healing and empowerment. This is especially relevant given Jordan’s multiple refugee communities.

"Science must serve humanity by honoring diverse lived   experiences and centering community-driven solutions," Dr. Dajani emphasized. "This study is not just about the past—it is about the future. It is about ensuring dignity, justice, and the possibility of return for all displaced peoples.”

 

 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-89818-z

 

https://www.science.org/content/article/children-war-refugees-may-inherit-their-parents-trauma.