Fig. 5: Potential role of vaginal microbiota in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring following maternal immune activation.

The vaginal microbiota, particularly, the Lactobacillus species, plays several significant roles in maintaining vaginal health. There is an association between the composition of the vaginal microbiota and reproductive health, including the risk for spontaneous preterm birth. Maternal immune activation (MIA), which can result from a range of factors such as infections, immune challenges, stress, environmental exposures, has been linked with an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring. Dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota due to MIA, along with subsequent disrupted immune responses, may foster the development of neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring. This imbalance in the vaginal microbiota might impact the synthesis of D- and L-lactic acid and other metabolites, leading to changes in pH and the immune system in the vagina. Furthermore, an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota may influence mental health issues in women throughout their lives. Part of the figure was designed using resources from Biorender.com.