Scientists may have discovered an unexpected factor in autism development – a mother’s gut bacteria. New research suggests that certain microbial communities in pregnant mice can influence brain development in their offspring through immune system interactions.
The study focused on IL-17a, an immune molecule that appears to affect fetal brain development when triggered by specific gut bacteria. Researchers found that blocking this molecule prevented autism-like behaviors in mouse pups, while allowing it to function resulted in social and behavioral differences characteristic of autism.
Even more compelling was the finding that transferring gut bacteria from affected mice to healthy ones could pass on these developmental effects. This suggests the mother’s microbiome, rather than the child’s, may be driving these changes.
While much more research is needed, these findings could eventually lead to new ways to support healthy neurodevelopment by focusing on maternal gut health during pregnancy.
