Maternal immune activation and neuropsychiatric disease in offspring: Pathogen’s perspective

Abstract

Neuropsychiatric disorders (NDDs) have been associated with maternal immune activation (MIA) in epidemiologic studies, such as prospective birth cohort studies. There is evidence linking maternal infectious pathogens and inflammation to a variety of outcomes, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder. MIA, which is typically triggered by pathogens (such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites), might offer a new perspective on prenatal NDD pathogenesis, possibly attributed to the altered microbiome of the mother. In this review, we highlight the primary mechanisms underlying MIA-induced NDDs caused by pathogens and/or pathogen-derived agents. Moreover, we outline therapeutic strategies to mitigate pathogen-induced MIA-associated neurological disorders, with the primary goal of preventing or managing pathogen exposure during pregnancy and minimizing the long-term effects on the offspring.