Autism-like brain changes reversed in mice with rapamycin

UCLA Health researchers have reported that inflammatory conditions during pregnancy can induce autism‑like alterations in the brains and behavior of mouse offspring. In a study published this week, the team exposed pregnant mice to a pro‑inflammatory stimulus and observed changes in social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and neuronal circuitry in their pups—phenotypes that mirror core features of autism spectrum disorders.

The investigators then tested whether these developmental changes could be reversed after the animals reached adulthood. A single administration of rapamycin, an immunosuppressive drug, temporarily restored normal social behavior and normalized several brain‑region markers in the adult mice. The effect, however, was short‑lived, suggesting that while the drug can mitigate the impact of prenatal inflammation, ongoing treatment or additional interventions might be necessary for sustained benefit.

These findings highlight the potential role of maternal inflammation in neurodevelopmental disorders and point to rapamycin as a candidate for therapeutic exploration. Further research will be required to determine whether similar mechanisms and treatments could apply to humans and to assess long‑term safety and efficacy.