EPIGENETIC MECHANISMS INVOLVED IN PRENATAL STRESS-INDUCED AUTISM RISK
Keywords:
Maternal stress, pregnancy, autism spectrum disorder, epigenetics, DNA methylation, neurodevelopment, prenatal environment, histone modificationAbstract
Maternal stress during pregnancy has emerged as a critical environmental factor influencing fetal brain development and potentially contributing to the onset of autism spectrum disorder. This article explores the epigenetic mechanisms through which prenatal stress alters neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring. By focusing on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, the review highlights how stress-related hormonal changes in the intrauterine environment can affect gene expression patterns associated with neurodevelopment. Understanding these pathways offers new insight into preventive strategies and early interventions for autism spectrum disorder.
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References
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