Neurodevelopmental Disorders Induced by Maternal Immune Activation: Toward a Prevention Strategy in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Kazuhiro Sakurada,Yoshihiro Noda

doi:10.3390/psychiatryint1010003

Kazuhiro Sakurada, Yoshihiro Noda

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint1010003

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Journal: Psychiatry International	Publication Date: Aug 18, 2020
Citations: 6	License type: CC BY 4.0

Affiliation: Keio University

Abstract

As of summer 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic is having a major impact on our daily lives on a global scale, forcing us to change to the new normal. However, the effects are not only detrimental to our present socioeconomic conditions but also have the risk of having negative biological effects on our descendants. Of concern is the effect of maternal immune activation following maternal infection with COVID-19 on the fetus’ cerebral nervous system. While we are currently occupied with countering the imminent threats in front of us, we also need to take steps from a public health perspective to reduce the impact of maternal infection on the fetus, especially the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, such a risk can be prevented and managed through the digital transformation of the nation’s health data and the strategic application of sophisticated data science approaches to those big data.

Highlights

In 1918, the appearance of influenza H1N1 caused lethal flu all over the world
Epidemiological studies have indicated a strong association between maternal infection and mental disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, and mood disorders [3]
In addition to influenza and rubella, herpes simplex virus type 2, cytomegalovirus, Toxoplasma gondii, and bacterial infections during pregnancy are associated with the risk of developing ASD and schizophrenia [3]

Summary

Introduction

In 1918, the appearance of influenza H1N1 caused lethal flu all over the world. The pandemic lasted only a few years, its negative impacts lasted for a long time. Cohort studies in the United States indicated that the offspring of women who were pregnant during the 1918 pandemic displayed increased rates of physical disability, lower incomes, lower socioeconomic status, and reduced educational attainment [1]. Similar impacts were reported from cohort studies in Sweden [2]

Association between Maternal Infection and Psychiatric Disorders

Changes in the Concept of Autism

Modifiable Factors That Reduce the Risk of Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Findings

Conclusions