Pregnancy-induced maternal microchimerism shapes neurodevelopment and behavior in mice

During pregnancy, maternal cells are transferred to the fetus, where they can reach the developing brain. In this study, the authors demonstrate that these maternal cells play an important role in neurodevelopment. Life-long brain function and mental health are critically determined by developmental processes occurring before birth. During mammalian pregnancy, maternal cells are transferred to the fetus. They are referred to as maternal microchimeric cells (MMc). Among other organs, MMc seed into the fetal brain, where their function is unknown. Here, we show that, in the offspring's developing brain in mice, MMc express a unique signature of sensome markers, control microglia homeostasis and prevent excessive presynaptic elimination. Further, MMc facilitate the oscillatory entrainment of developing prefrontal-hippocampal circuits and support the maturation of behavioral abilities. Our findings highlight that MMc are not a mere placental leak out, but rather a functional mechanism that shapes optimal conditions for healthy brain function later in life.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the important role of maternal cells in fetal brain development. Maternal microchimeric cells (MMc) express specific markers, control microglia homeostasis, prevent excessive synaptic elimination, and support the maturation of behavioral abilities.