A recent study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry revealed that the maternal perinatal depression —which spans both the gestation and postpartum periods—is significantly associated with an increased risk of traits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on children, with a particularly pronounced impact on girls.
The research analyzed data from a human cohort of 23,218 pairs of mothers and children in Japan and was complemented with an experimental model in mice.
The results indicated that sons and daughters of mothers with high levels of psychological distress or postpartum depression obtained higher scores on scales that evaluate behaviors associated with TEA.
Differentiated impact by sex
One of the most relevant findings was the difference by sex in vulnerability to these effects. According to the results, the girls whose mothers experienced depression during pregnancy or postpartum were between 5.8 and 9.3 times more likely to present traits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Furthermore, it was observed that girls born to mothers with perinatal depression tended to have lower birth weight.
In contrast, although the men Generally speaking, they have a higher prevalence of diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, the study did not find that maternal depression increased their risk as markedly as in girls.
Biological mechanisms identified
To delve deeper into the mechanisms involved, the team used a mouse model exposed to prenatal stress. Specific molecular alterations were detected in the brains of female offspring.
A decrease in receptor mRNA levels was observed. oxytocin (OXTR) in the prefrontal cortex of young females. Oxytocin plays a relevant role in social bonds and the regulation of socio-affective behavior.
There was also a reduction in neurotrophic factor brain-derived protein (BDNF), a key protein for neuronal growth and brain plasticity, again with a specific effect in females.
The importance of maternal mental health
The study highlights that perinatal depression affects approximately 10 to 20 percent of women.
Factors such as a history of depression, low social support and difficulties in the relationship increase this risk, which can influence fetal neurodevelopment through hormonal and inflammatory processes.
The authors highlighted the need to monitor and monitor the mental health of pregnant women as a preventive measure for the cognitive and social development of boys and girls.
Early interventions, with a family focus, could mitigate the impact of prenatal distress and strengthen the mother-child bond, especially in cases detected towards the middle of pregnancy.
