DNA methylation, an epigenetic process that modifies gene expression and can alter physiological responses to psychological stress, is malleable and may be changed by psychobehavioral interventions such as mindfulness-based stress reduction, cognitive behavioral therapy, and yoga. This scoping review of 21 studies found that several reported differences in DNA methylation in response to such interventions across genes related to stress and inflammation, though many studies were inadequately powered. Studies varied widely in participant health status, intervention type and duration, biospecimens examined, and DNA analysis methods. Future research needs to address design limitations, evaluate biological importance, and link DNA methylation changes to physiological and psychological outcomes.
A culturally adapted virtual mindfulness program, Mindfulness for African Americans Postpartum (MAAP), is being tested in a pilot randomized controlled trial with African American women within 12 months of giving birth. The intervention adapts Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction to include spirituality, interdependence, self-empowerment, and storytelling, and is delivered via Zoom by a certified instructor. The primary aim is to reduce psycho-behavioral symptoms such as perceived stress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, poor sleep, posttraumatic stress, and fatigue, and to improve mother-infant bonding. A secondary aim explores effects on proinflammatory cytokines and oxytocin. The protocol addresses time constraints and parenting challenges to make mindfulness more accessible for this higher-risk population.