Figure 1 (IMAGE)
Caption
Overview of the study examining the link between maternal perinatal depression and autistic-related traits in offspring, incorporating both human cohort data and an animal model. Analysis of a large-scale Japanese birth cohort revealed that higher levels of maternal psychological distress during pregnancy and the postpartum period were associated with increased autistic-related traits in toddlers, with a stronger association observed in girls. Complementary mouse experiments showed that prenatal stress induced depressive-like behaviors and impaired maternal care in mothers, while female offspring exhibited autism-like behaviors, reduced social interaction, and altered oxytocin-related signaling in the prefrontal cortex.
Credit
©Tohoku University
Usage Restrictions
Reporters may freely use these materials in news coverage with appropriate credit information.
License
Licensed content