A new study has uncovered a possible connection between gut bacteria and the development of autism, adding to a growing body of research exploring how our microbiome influences overall health. Over the past several years, scientists have increasingly linked the gut microbiome—the trillions of microorganisms living in our digestive systems—to critical aspects of physical and mental well-being.

These gut microbes have been shown to influence everything from mood and stress regulation to the risk of autoimmune conditions such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Now, findings published in The Journal of Immunology suggest that these bacteria may also play a role in neurological development, particularly in relation to autism spectrum disorder.

Autism, as defined by the World Health Organization, encompasses a range of developmental disorders that affect social interaction, communication, and behavior. It is often accompanied by other conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and challenges with sleep and self-regulation. Intellectual abilities among individuals with autism vary widely, underscoring the complexity of the condition.

The recent study emphasizes the importance of the maternal microbiome—the community of bacteria present in a pregnant woman’s body—and its potential influence on a child’s neurodevelopment. Researchers found that the mother’s gut bacteria may affect how her offspring’s immune system responds to stress, illness, or injury, which could be linked to autism risk later in life.