Encoding gestational immune activation in the female brain

A mothers ability to care for her offspring is critical for the newborns survival, growth and development in all mammalian species. This is enabled by the adaptation of the brain adapts during pregnancy that support these caregiving behaviors after birth. Our research focuses on how maternal immune activation (MIA)triggering the mothers immune system during pregnancymight interfere with these brain changes, potentially biasing a females ability to provide proper care to her offspring after birth. To investigate this, we use a range of cutting-edge methods in a mouse model. We employ a transgenic mouse line, which allows us to track and label brain cells activated by immune challenge. By then examining how these labeled cells respond during caregiving tasks, we can identify the specific brain regions and cell types involved. We will define the genetic repertoire of these cells and use advanced chemogenetic techniques to test how altering their activity affects caregiving behavior. By defining the interaction between immune activation to changes in the brains caregiving circuitry, we aim to uncover how immune challenge during pregnancy, such as infection, can disrupt the complex changes of the female brain in the preparation for the arrival of the young. Understanding how infections during pregnancy can have lasting effects on the brain, and uncovering the underlying neural mechanisms, is of considerable social and medical importance and may guide the development of strategies to support maternal and offspring health and well-being.