Interview with Prof. Antonio Giordano, Director of SHRO, on the Genetic Mechanisms Regulating the Transmission of Paternal Stress.

Dr. Antonio Giordano director of SHRO

Professor Giordano, thank you for granting us this interview. Recent research on the genetic mechanisms linking paternal stress to offspring brain development has attracted significant attention.

Can you explain, in simple terms, what your researchers have discovered?

Prof. Antonio Giordano: Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity to discuss this research data. In short, our discovery revealed that stress experienced by fathers can influence their children's brain development. While we often focus on the maternal environment during pregnancy as a crucial factor in child development, our research has demonstrated that paternal stress, through changes in sperm, can also have significant effects on offspring brain development.

This is a surprising result, as the maternal environment is usually emphasized. What is the mechanism underlying this paternal influence?

Prof. Antonio Giordano: The key to this process is epigenetics. When a father experiences stressful situations, these alter the expression of certain genes in sperm. Essentially, stress modifies the "reading plan" of genes without altering the DNA sequence. These changes can then be transmitted to offspring, influencing their brain development. This means that not only genetics but also the environment in which parents live plays a role in shaping the future of their children through specific genetic transmission mechanisms.

If I understand correctly, it is not just the child's environment after birth but also the environment the parents experience before conception that can have a lasting effect on child development?

Prof. Antonio Giordano: Exactly. The environment in which parents live, particularly the stress they encounter, affects more than just behaviour: it can also influence children's cognitive abilities and brain development. This concept fundamentally shifts our understanding of the factors shaping brain development. Previously, the focus was almost exclusively on mothers during pregnancy. Now, we recognize that fathers, through their environmental experiences, also play a fundamental role in shaping their children's neurological future.

This opens up fascinating possibilities. How do you think this research could influence future health or educational policies?

Prof. Antonio Giordano: Our research suggests that the mental and physical health of parents, especially fathers, should be given greater attention in public health policies. Psychological support and stress prevention programs should not be limited to pregnant women but should also extend to men. A more integrated and inclusive approach that considers both parents could improve overall well-being and positively impact children's neurological development.

What are the next steps for your team in this field of research?

Prof. Antonio Giordano: We are continuing to investigate how paternal stress alters gene expression in sperm and how these changes affect offspring brain function in the long term. Additionally, we aim to identify which specific environmental factors such as workplace stress or challenging family relationships have the most significant impact. Finally, we are exploring potential therapeutic or preventive interventions to mitigate the negative effects of paternal stress on future generations.

Professor Giordano, thank you for this insightful interview and for sharing the results of your groundbreaking research with us.

Prof. Antonio Giordano: It was a pleasure. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss such an important topic. I hope our discoveries contribute to a better future for the next generations.