Abused children carry the trauma in their cells: study

Children playing. Researchers found the trauma of child abuse was indelibly printed in the DNA of victims. [Photo: AFP]

Children subjected to abuse may carry the physical hallmark of that trauma in their cells, scientists said Tuesday, in research that could help criminal investigations probing historic mistreatment.

The imprints may also shed light on whether or not trauma can be passed on between generations as has long been hypothesised.