From energy levels to brain health, things that are shaped by maternal genes

Genes that a child inherits from mothers has a bearing on energy levels, immune system, among many other things. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

The genes that you inherit from your parents do have an outsized role to play in determining how you look and how your body functions, among other things. Ever wondered what all things are shaped by maternal genes? Well, science has Science says that the maternal genetics helps shape an individual's energy levels, the ability of body to deal with stress, brain health and much more.

Below are the things that are shapes by maternal genes

How your brain ages

A research from Harvard Medical School has demonstrated how the mitochondrial DNA has a bearing on how the brain ages. Given how fertilization works, the mitochondria comes exclusively from the mother. Therefore, the link has been drawn between the health of brain and maternal genetics.

Besides, as per a 2012 study, people with a maternal history of Alzheimer's disease showed earlier brain changes than those who had a paternal history.

Also read: Man donated his sperm with cancer-causing gene to conceive over 200 children; Here's what happened next

Nerve-related genes

Every mother passes on one X chromosome to their children. What is important to note here is that X chromosomes carry many brain and nerve-related genes. This explains that how a brain develops, cognitive health and other neurological traits are shaped by the X chromosome. So, conditions like colour vision issues, difficulty in learning or any other neurological problem are linked to X chromosome.

Immune system

As per the findings of the review, maternal genes also have a bearing on one's immune system. So, overactive response can lead to an increase risk of autoimmune conditions, whereas balanced responses aid brain health.

Energy levels of a person

All mitochondrial DNA comes from the mother. For the uninitiated, the main function of mitochondria is to generate energy for power cells. So, if the mitochondrial genes are weak, an individual is likely to feel more tired and sluggish. Whereas, if the genes are strong, an individual is likely to feel more energetic and sharp.

Ability to regulate stress

A study in the NIH demonstrated that maternal genetic patterns have a strong bearing on how the brain reacts to stress. This in turn also impacts anxiety levels, quality of sleep and emotional regulation. So, if a person has a good coping mechanism to deal with stress, it suggests strong maternal genes.

Also read: Are the eggs you eat for breakfast safe? Doctor says beware of this one substance

Metabolic health and blood sugar levels

Research has showed that type 2 diabetes is often linked to maternal genes. How your body stores fat and uses glucose has an impact on how well your mind functions.

FAQs on how maternal genes shape our body's functioning:

Because mothers pass on key genetic material to all children, including one X chromosome and all mitochondria, which influence energy use, brain function, and development.

Many brain- and nerve-related genes sit on the X chromosome, so maternal X genes can shape attention, learning, sensory processing, and neural development.

Yes. Along with DNA, mothers influence early development through the womb environment, affecting metabolism, immunity, and stress responses.

Yes. Subtle differences in processing speed, sensitivity, or cognition can arise from maternal genes even when no disorder is present.

Not always. Sons rely on a single maternal X chromosome, while daughters have two Xs, which can soften or vary the effects of maternal X-linked genes.