Trauma spectrum disorders

Abstract

Exposure to trauma and pathological responses are influenced by genotype. Despite the inherent difficulties of studying the genetics of trauma-related disorders, the field has exhibited remarkable advances. Identification of polymorphisms in critical genes that influence neurotransmitter systems involved in the stress response is rapidly progressing and will elucidate the nature of gene-by-environment interactions that determine whether an individual develops a disorder in response to trauma. This chapter provides an overview of the status of genetic research on trauma spectrum disorders and discusses clinical implications. © 2006 Humana Press Inc.