We are particularly interested in the impact of stress just before puberty and in neonates. The consequence of mild stress in animal models is measured by changes in their behaviour. These consequences are not necessarily negative. Mild stress can build resilience and adaptability that help the individual later in life. Understanding the epigenetic changes, the process by which the activity of our genes is modified in real time, induced by stress will provide new insights into human behaviour. Long term it may identify novel therapeutic opportunities for people struggling with life.
