Gut Microbiota’s Role in Autism Development

Recent research highlights the vital role our gut microbiota plays in health, influencing everything from mental health to autoimmune diseases. A new study published in The Journal of Immunology explores how the mother’s gut microbiota might impact the risk of autism in offspring, potentially more than the child’s own microbiota.

Key Findings on IL-17a and Brain Development

John Lukens, lead researcher at the University of Virginia, explained, “The microbiome can shape the developing brain in multiple ways.” The study focuses on a molecule called interleukin-17a (IL-17a), which is produced by the immune system and linked to inflammatory diseases like psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. IL-17a also influences brain development before birth.

Experiments on Mice Show Microbiota’s Influence

The team studied female mice from two groups: one with microbiota that trigger IL-17a-related inflammation, and a control group without this trait. When IL-17a was suppressed, pups from both groups showed typical behavior. However, without suppression, pups from the first group developed autism-like behaviors, including social and repetitive difficulties.

To confirm the role of microbiota, researchers transplanted feces from the first group into the second group’s mice. The second group’s pups then developed autism-like symptoms, showing the mother’s microbiota can affect offspring’s brain development.

Implications and Future Research

While these findings are preliminary and based on animals, they suggest a significant link between the mother’s gut microbiome and autism risk. Lukens noted, “There are a number of more molecules to look at. IL-17a might be a single component in a much bigger picture.” The next step is to identify which parts of the mother’s microbiome influence autism and investigate these connections in humans.