Prenatal Exposure to the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda is associated with DNA methylation at candidate genes in early adulthood: the role of trauma severity and postnatal adversity

Abstract

We investigated associations between prenatal genocidal trauma, including maternal rape, and postnatal adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on DNA methylation of genes associated with the stress response. In a comparative cross-sectional study of 91 Rwandan young adults, categorized by prenatal exposure to genocide and maternal rape, genocide without rape, and unexposed controls, we analyzed DNA methylation from dried blood spots and assessed ACEs and mental health at age 24. Prenatal exposure to maternal rape was associated with DNA methylation changes in BDNF and SLC6A4, with the association in BDNF attenuated by ACEs exposure. Genocide exposure without rape was associated with methylation changes in PRDM8 after adjusting for early adversity. Methylation in BDNF and SLC6A4 correlated with mental health scores. These findings underscore the impact of prenatal and postnatal trauma on DNA methylation and mental health, emphasizing the need for continued support for survivors in the decades after conflict.