What Role Do Maternal Autoantibodies Play in Autism Risk?

PostedNovember 30, 2025

UpdatedNovember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Researchers are increasingly exploring the connection between maternal autoantibodies and autism, focusing on how immune system activity during pregnancy can shape a child’s brain development. When a mother’s immune system mistakenly produces antibodies that target her own tissues or those of the foetus, this condition, known as immune dysfunction, may influence neurodevelopment. The link between maternal autoantibodies and autism has become a key focus in understanding non-genetic autism risk factors.

These specific antibodies, generated during antibodies pregnancy scenarios, can cross the placenta and bind to proteins in the developing brain. This interference may affect how brain regions grow and connect, contributing to behaviours associated with autism spectrum disorder. The relationship between maternal autoantibodies and autism is part of a broader investigation into how maternal immune factors may shape long-term developmental outcomes.

How Maternal Autoantibodies and Autism Influence Foetal Brain Development

Here are some ways maternal autoantibodies and autism risk may be connected:

Immune dysfunction and brain disruption

In cases of immune dysfunction, the body produces autoantibodies that mistake foetal brain tissue as a threat. This response can interrupt critical periods of neurodevelopment, possibly affecting cognition, social interaction, and sensory processing.

Antibodies during pregnancy and developmental effects

Antibodies in pregnancy that cross into foetal circulation may target proteins necessary for brain development. Their interference has been linked to specific autism-related patterns in both animal and human studies.

Maternal immune history as a risk indicator

Women with autoimmune conditions or previous pregnancies with autism diagnoses may be more likely to produce these autoantibodies, further supporting the connection between maternal autoantibodies and autism.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how maternal autoantibodies and autism may relate to your child’s development and explore screening options for immune dysfunction in pregnancy.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Maternal Health and Infections.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.