Autism research has taken an intriguing turn with a new study pointing to the mother’s gut bacteria as a potential influence on brain development. Published in The Journal of Immunology, the research reveals that certain gut microbes may trigger immune responses that affect fetal neurodevelopment.
The key player? A molecule called IL-17a, known for its role in inflammation. In mice with specific gut bacteria, high IL-17a levels during pregnancy led to offspring with autism-like behaviors. Blocking the molecule prevented these effects, proving its impact.
To test the microbiome’s role, researchers performed fecal transplants between mice. Offspring of mice given “inflammatory” bacteria developed neurological differences, while those with typical bacteria did not.
While the study doesn’t prove the same happens in humans, it offers a compelling clue. Lead researcher John Lukens emphasizes the need for further study—both to identify the exact bacteria involved and to explore whether targeting the microbiome could one day help reduce autism risk.
