IL-6 Inhibition Partially Ameliorates Maternal Immune Activation-Induced Autism-Like Behavioral Abnormalities in Mice.

ABSTRACT: Prenatal maternal immune activation (MIA) has been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pathogenesis, with interleukin-6 (IL-6) identified as a key inflammatory mediator. We investigated the therapeutic potential of IL-6 inhibition in an MIA mouse model induced by Toxoplasma gondii soluble tachyzoite antigen (STAg). Adult MIA offspring received systemic administration of the IL-6-neutralizing antibody (MP5-20F3) or isotype control, followed by behavioral assessments one week later. Open field and elevated plus maze tests revealed heightened anxiety-like behaviors in the STAg offspring, which were largely reversed by IL-6 inhibition. Reciprocal social interaction tests showed diminished sociability in the STAg offspring, which was partially restored by IL-6 inhibition. Howeve

SUBMITTER: Zhang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12564645 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature