Anna Asratian

To achieve this goal, I aim to integrate my current studies in the Öst group on paternal epigenetic transmission with my previous experiences in molecular psychiatry in the Heilig lab.

The Paternal Origins of Health and Diseases (POHaD) paradigm explores how paternal factors shape offspring health, as research has shown that epigenetic factors such as small RNAs in sperm can influence embryonic development and offspring phenotype. Small RNAs serve both as protectors of genomic integrity and as regulators of gene expression, playing a role in embryogenesis. Our aim is to deepen the understanding of small RNAs impact on long-term health and disease susceptibility in the next generation.

In previous research, I have investigated how environmental factors such as stress and trauma influence biological and behavioral outcomes in both youth and adults, as well as the role of athlete and coach traits in shaping experiences in both recreational and competitive sports. Understanding the effects of paternal transmission of regulatory factors such as small RNAs on offspring health can contribute to a healthier future generation and guide new breeding strategies in livestock farming.