Sperm sncRNA networks are synchronized by a coordination between adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and current stress

Our previous studies found that elevated perceived stress significantly altered dynamically expressed sncRNA and increased sperm motility. However, the lasting influence of stressors earlier in life, such as adverse childhood experiences (ACE), and its interaction with current stress on sperm sncRNA remain unclear.

Therefore, in a longitudinal human cohort we examined differential sncRNA and co-expression networks associated with perceived stress and ACE. Utilizing computational modeling, we identified significant time-dependent interactions between ACE and perceived stress that altered both sncRNA levels and subtype coordination. Such changes across sncRNA are likely to significantly alter genes important for reproductive outcomes, reflecting a synchronized strategy by which current and past environments may impact the next generation.