In this episode of Just Like Nana, host Amie (Elizabeth) Penny Sayler sits down with Dr. Isabelle Mansuy, a Professor in Neuroepigenetics. They get to the root of ancestral trauma, starting with the groundbreaking science of epigenetics and the transgenerational effects of trauma. 

About Dr. Isabelle Mansuy

Dr. Isabelle Mansuy is a leading expert in the field of neuroepigenetics and a professor based in Switzerland. Her pioneering research focuses on the biological mechanisms of how traumatic life experiences, particularly those occurring in early childhood, modify mental and physical health across generations. Through her extensive work with mouse models, Dr. Mansuy has provided some of the most compelling evidence to date that traumatic signals can be carried in the germline (sperm cells), affecting the behavior and physiology of offspring up to five generations later. 

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• While your DNA sequence (the hardware) is fixed, your epigenome (the software) is dynamic and can be modulated by both your life experiences and the life experiences of your ancestors.
• Early-life trauma creates epigenetic signals in sperm (germ) cells, which transmit the consequences of that trauma to future generations. 

Connect with Dr. Isabelle Mansuy

Website: https://www.mansuylab.ch/team/isabellemansuy 

Connect with the Show

Are you curious about the "Elizabeths" in your own family tree? We want to hear from you!

• Website: justlikenana.com
• Share Your Story: If you have a family story or trauma you’re exploring, reach out via our website for a chance to be interviewed.

Connect with Just Like Nana's Website.

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Theme music by Carter Penny.