User talk:WikiWizard3286

Hi WikiWizard3286,

Here are a few general pointers. I am not sure if this is too specific but maybe list specific cytokines involved in this pathway and how these cytokines can cross the placental barrier, additional the role cortisol plays in this. It may be helpful to discuss critical periods of development and the timeline in which behavioral changes are observed in offspring. I think there is also a difference between bacterial vs viral infection immune activation on exactly which neurodevelopment disorder the offspring presents with, so that may be interesting to discuss. Overall, a good genera overview I think the next steps would be to create a more solid outline of your plans for the article.

BrianaEllie

Maternal immune activation has also been associated with increased risk for development of neurodevelopmental disorders.[1] Maternal immune activation is when inflammatory pathways are activated during pregnancy, usually by an infection. These inflammatory pathways involve the release of cytokines, or immune signaling proteins. Injection of Poly(I:C), which is an immunostimulant and mimics viral infection, to pregnant rodents has been shown to elevate inflammatory cytokines in the brain of the offspring, induce structural brain changes in the offspring, and bring about behavioral changes such as hyperactivity, more aggressive behavior, and less prosocial behavior in the offspring.[2] In addition to simulating viral infection, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) has been used to mimic bacterial infection in rodents and observe the effects of maternal immune activation on the offspring. LPS had similar effects as Poly(I:C) on the immune system of the offspring, increasing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.[3] This inflammatory state in the offspring persisted until adulthood, indicating the long-lasting effects of maternal immune activation.[3] Overall, recent studies make a case for infection during pregnancy being an environmental risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD or schizophrenia.

Welcome!
Hello, WikiWizard3286, and welcome to Wikipedia! My name is Ian and I work with Wiki Education; I help support students who are editing as part of a class assignment.

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