Researchers find potential link between placental inflammation and male autism traits

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory uncovered a connection between inflammation during pregnancy, placental damage, and autism-like traits in male mice, ScienceDaily reported. Researchers observed that female mice appeared to be naturally protected from these effects. [1]

The discovery could help explain why clinicians diagnose autism spectrum disorder more frequently in boys than in girls, according to ScienceDaily. While researchers are still working to understand why the condition develops, genetics and conditions during pregnancy both influence the likelihood of autism. [1]

Understanding of autism has evolved through cultural, scientific, and societal factors, which have shaped both treatment approaches and public perceptions. Scientific progress continues to clarify how the condition develops, alongside views of autism ranging from pathologized conditions to neurodiversity. [2]

ScienceDaily reported that identifying this biological mechanism could open new opportunities for early medical interventions during pregnancy. [1]