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. 2022 Apr 8;38(7):662–675. doi: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.03.006

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Mechanisms contributing to offspring phenotypes from maternal immune activation (MIA) models.

Based on the MIA literature, increased maternal cytokine levels (particularly IL-6 and IL-17a) and placental damage from respiratory issues associated with a SARS-CoV-2 infection have the potential to alter foetal central nervous system development. In particular, MIA can lead to enhanced foetal brain cytokine levels, microglial changes, and an imbalance in reactive oxygen species. These can affect the epigenetic information contained within the various brain cells and the functioning of various neurotransmitter systems. This complex array of changes can increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in the offspring, including schizophrenia and autism. Created with BioRender.com. Abbreviations: IL, interleukin; ROS, reactive oxygen species; SARS-CoV-2, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.