What role do animal models play in studying maternal health and autism? 

Animal models in maternal health and autism have become essential tools for understanding how prenatal factors affect brain development. Because it is not possible to run controlled experiments on pregnant humans, researchers turn to animals, especially rodents, to simulate how maternal stress, infection, or immune changes might influence autism risk in offspring. 

By using animal models in maternal health and autism, scientists can study everything from gene expression to behaviour in a highly controlled setting. These experiments are helping to uncover the biological pathways behind autism and guiding the development of potential therapies and early interventions. 

What Animal Models Are Revealing About Autism Risk 

Here is how different animal-based approaches are contributing to our understanding: 

Rodent MIA models and immune activation  

Rodent MIA (Maternal Immune Activation) models are among the most widely used. By simulating infections or immune responses in pregnant mice, researchers can track how the immune system disrupts foetal brain development. These models have revealed that cytokine activity, especially during the second trimester, can lead to behaviours in offspring that resemble human autism traits. 

From lab to clinic: the power of translational research  

Findings from these models feed directly into translational research, helping bridge the gap between lab discoveries and human treatments. For example, medications or dietary changes that reduce inflammation in rodent models are now being explored for preventive use during high-risk pregnancies. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how maternal health and sensory processing impact your child’s development and how to support effective sensory regulation and comfort. 

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.