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Review
. 2013 Dec;128(6):434-47.
doi: 10.1111/acps.12143. Epub 2013 May 10.

The neurobiological correlates of childhood adversity and implications for treatment

A R Tyrka  1 , D E Burgers, N S Philip, L H Price, L L Carpenter
Affiliations
Review

The neurobiological correlates of childhood adversity and implications for treatment

A R Tyrka et al. Acta Psychiatr Scand. 2013 Dec.

Abstract

Objective: This article provides an overview of research on the neurobiological correlates of childhood adversity and a selective review of treatment implications.

Method: Findings from a broad array of human and animal studies of early adversity were reviewed.

Results: Topics reviewed include neuroendocrine, neurotrophic, neuroimaging, and cognitive effects of adversity, as well as genetic and epigenetic influences. Effects of early-life stress on treatment outcome are considered, and development of treatments designed to address the neurobiological abnormalities is discussed.

Conclusion: Early adversity is associated with abnormalities of several neurobiological systems that are implicated in the development of psychopathology and other medical conditions. Early-life stress negatively impacts treatment outcome, and individuals may require treatments that are specific to this condition.

Keywords: childhood abuse; early-life stress; neurobiology; treatment.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Model: Neurobiological effects of childhood adversity. Childhood adversity engenders risk for psychopathology and medical morbidity through a number of inter-related pathways. Genetic sensitivity to environmental factors is an important determinant of risk, and epigenetic effects of early adversity influence the biological impact of stress exposure. Behavioral adaptation may exaccerbate or ameliorate these effects. Ensuing alterations of neuroendocrine, neuroimmune, and neurotrophin pathways are thought to be mechanisms of the development of psychiatric disorders and related medical conditions.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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