Memories May be Genetic Mementos

Science News

on January 1, 2025
Featured in Answers Magazine

Life experiences may leave a lasting mark on your genes to be passed down to your descendants.

Scientists who study epigenetics (the way behaviors and environments affect gene expression without altering DNA sequence) have discovered that memories could be inherited—which means the experiences of your ancestors could potentially play a part in your personality, behaviors, and fears. For example, a 2020 study showed that Holocaust survivors passed along altered expressions in stress-related genes to their children, affecting cortisol and immune function.

The finding shows how our biology and life experiences are more deeply connected than scientists previously thought possible. Adam’s sin and the effects of the fall left a mark on every person. But we have hope for today in Christ’s redemptive death and resurrection, and hope for tomorrow in Christ’s return. On that day, he will make all things new and destroy sin and its effects forever

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