Maternal immune activation: Implications for neuropsychiatric disorders

TitleMaternal immune activation: Implications for neuropsychiatric disorders
Publication TypeJournal Article
AuthorsEstes, M. L., and A. K. McAllister
Epidemiological evidence implicates maternal infection as a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Animal models corroborate this link and demonstrate that maternal immune activation (MIA) alone is sufficient to impart lifelong neuropathology and altered behaviors in offspring. This Review describes common principles revealed by these models, highlighting recent findings that strengthen their relevance for schizophrenia and autism and are starting to reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of MIA on offspring. The role of MIA as a primer for a much wider range of psychiatric and neurologic disorders is also discussed. Finally, the need for more research in this nascent field and the implications for identifying and developing new treatments for individuals at heightened risk for neuroimmune disorders are considered.
Title Maternal immune activation: Implications for neuropsychiatric disorders
Publication Title Science
Publication Type Journal Article
Published Year 2016
Authors M.L. Estes; A.K. McAllister
Edition 2016/08/20
Accession Number 27540164
Number 6301
ISBN Number 0036-8075
Grant List
-

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

For breaking news and to stay connected, follow us on social media. Sign up to get our E-News delivered straight to your inbox.