​RFK JR., Autism --- and A Maternal Immune Activation Hypothesis

Researchers actually already know a lot  more about autism than They did --- even though it is not common knowledge

​Val's Take/Conjecture

• RFK Jr. is not wrong to be interested in addressing "autism."
• Many researchers around the world are trying to address Neuro-Developmental & Psychiatric Disorders, and there is often a blurring and overlap.

Developmental Inflammation seems to be often involved with Neuro-Developmental & Psychiatric Disorders.

• Well what causes Developmental Inflammation --- a  lot of things.
  • That's one of the reasons why researchers talk about "MULTI-FACTORAL" causes for Neuro-Developmental and Psychiatric Disorders.
  • Further, that Developmental Inflammation can affect  GENE EXPRESSION and EPIGENETICS.

At least some of what seems to be happening in utero during Maternal Immune Activation is dysregulation of MICROGLIA --- the Brain's Innate Immune Cells 

​Maternal Inflammation During Pregnancy and Offspring Brain Development: The Role of Mitochondria (2022)

​[A]lterations in mitochondrial structure/function due to MIA may be programmed and, hence, can persist over the life span."

"Thus, in addition to the effects of MIA-induced alterations in mitochondrial function on the developing brain, these mitochondrial alterations may continue to exert long-term effects on the brain (and other systems) over the life span of the individual."

​If we really want to provide better treatments for Neuro-Developmental & Psychiatric Disorders ---

• the public, policy-makers and clinicians need a better understanding of the research that is already there.
•  more educational and translational medicine support is desperately needed.

​Dr. Chris Palmer
Autism:  Disorder, Disability or Difference

​Palmer makes the point that genetics is not necessarily the biggest factor --- but individual issues during neuro-development in utero.

That would be consistent with the Maternal Immune Activation Hypothesis of Neuro-Developmental and Psychiatric Disorders.

Further, Paternal Immune Activation has also been recognized.

​
​Resveratrol prevents offspring's behavioral impairment associated with immunogenic stress during pregnancy (2025)

*Brazilian Researchers

Does maternal immune activation dysregulate mitochondria in microglia?
(April 27, 2025)

​Yes, maternal immune activation (MIA) can dysregulate mitochondria in microglia.

. . .

MIA activates microglia, the brain's immune cells, leading to the release of proinflammatory cytokines. 

Mitochondrial Dysfunction:

This microglial activation can disrupt mitochondrial function in microglia, potentially leading to oxidative stress, altered mitochondrial membrane potential, and changes in mitochondrial protein expression. 

. . .

Mitochondria as a Target and Mediator:

Mitochondria are not only affected by inflammation but can also contribute to the inflammatory process by releasing mitochondrial DAMPs, which can activate the inflammasome and further amplify inflammation. 

Consequences for Brain Development:
.
Mitochondrial dysfunction in microglia, particularly during the critical window of brain development, can have consequences for neurodevelopment and increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. 

. . .

This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. Generative AI is experimental.