Maternal Immune Activation as a Risk Factor for Schizophrenia: Evidence From Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Abstract

Maternal immune activation (MIA) has been implicated as a risk factor for schizophrenia by several epidemiological studies. Animal models have confirmed this association between MIA and long-term neuropathology as well as behavioral abnormalities in the progeny. This chapter describes outcomes from the preclinical MIA models as well as results from recent clinical studies corroborating the effects of MIA on the neurodevelopment of the offspring. We have described various neurochemical, structural, and behavioral changes occurring in the developing brain of the MIA model offspring. Clinical studies delineating the effects of various maternal infections on fetal brain development and association of genetics with the development of schizophrenia have been summarized. We have also reviewed various neurobiological alterations induced by MIA in the fetal brain that play a role in the manifestation of schizophrenia. More research in this field and effective management of maternal infections are needed to reduce the future risk of schizophrenia in the offspring.