Ricerc@Sapienza

Background. A history of childhood maltreatment (CM), in the form of abuse and neglect, or early-dysfunctional relationships, increases the susceptibility to develop psychopathologies later in life. CM is known to alter the homeostasis of the whole body. However, the precise biological mechanisms underlying psychopathological risk in CM individuals are still not clear. Moreover, there is a fundamental lack of early biomarkers that could predict psychopathological outcomes in CM subjects.

According to recent studies experiencing stressful life events early in life affects cellular aging through shortening telomere length. This parameter has been found altered both in individuals with a history of childhood maltreatment and in the ones affected by psychopathologies.

Objective. Therefore, the aim of this joint project is to investigate how CM can shape cellular aging, in order to predict psychopathological risk.

Methodology. Individuals who experienced different types of CM or normal early-environment will be exposed to a screening aimed at evaluating the history of childhood maltreatment, levels of early parental care, attachment styles and psychopathological risk. Genetic analysis to detect telomeres length will be performed.

Expected Results. Through this examination, we intend to explore the role of telomere length as biomarker of psychopathological risk in individuals with a history of CM.