Epigenetic meta-analysis across three civilian cohorts identifies NRG1 and HGS as blood-based biomarkers for post-traumatic stress disorder

Uddin, M.
Ratanatharathorn, A.
Armstrong, D.
Kuan, P.-F.
Aiello, A.E.
Bromet, E.J.
Galea, S.
Koenen, K.C.
Luft, B.
Ressler, K.J.
Wildman, D.E.
Nievergelt, C.M.
Smith, A.

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Publication date

January 2018

DOI

10.17615/0myw-nn78

Language

English

Abstract

Aim: Trauma exposure is a necessary, but not deterministic, contributor to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Epigenetic factors may distinguish between trauma-exposed individuals with versus without PTSD. Materials & methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of PTSD epigenome-wide association studies in trauma-exposed cohorts drawn from civilian contexts. Whole blood-derived DNA methylation levels were analyzed in 545 study participants, drawn from the three civilian cohorts participating in the PTSD working group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium. Results: Two CpG sites significantly associated with current PTSD in NRG1 (cg23637605) and in HGS (cg19577098). Conclusion: PTSD is associated with differential methylation, measured in blo...