365 Childhood Exposure to Violence and Adolescent Depression: The Role of Epigenetic Aging in Risk Identification

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: This study examines associations between childhood violence exposure, accelerated biological aging, and adolescent depression using DNA methylation-based epigenetic clocks. Findings aim to identify biomarkers for early detection, guide interventions, and address youth mental health disparities. Methods/Study Population:Data from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 4,898), a diverse urban U.S. cohort, were analyzed. Childhood violence exposure, assessed using the Parent-Child Conflict Tactics Scale, included measures of physical, emotional, and psychological aggression and neglect. Biological aging at age 15 was evaluated using second-generation epigenetic clocks derived from saliva DNA methylation patterns, while depressive symptoms were measured with the CES-D scale. Multiple linear regression models tested associations between early violence exposure, epigenetic aging, and depressive symptoms, adjusting for socioeconomic status, caregiver mental health, and other key covariates. Results/Anticipated Results: Preliminary results suggest that early violence exposure may be linked to accelerated biological aging and depressive symptoms during adolescence, a critical developmental period. Epigenetic clocks offer an objective method for identifying high-risk youth, complementing mental health evaluations. With further validation and participatory action research, these findings could guide the development of biomarkers for longitudinal testing in school-based screenings and community health programs. These tools aim to be accessible, culturally relevant, and tailored to diverse populations, enhancing early detection, informing personalized interventions, and supporting scalable clinical applications. Discussion/Significance of Impact: This study explores links between early adversity, biological aging, and mental health, advancing understanding of adolescent depression. Epigenetic biomarkers could improve risk detection and guide tailored interventions in schools and community settings, enhancing access and reducing disparities.