Long-lasting effects of prenatal stress on HPA axis and inflammation: A systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis in rodent studies

Exposure to prenatal stress (PNS) can lead long-lasting neurobiological and behavioral consequences for the offspring, which may enhance susceptibility mental disorders. The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis immune system are two major factors involved in response. Here, we performed a systematic review meta-analysis of rodent studies that investigated effects PNS exposure on HPA inflammatory cytokines adult offspring. Our analysis shows animals exposed display consistent increase peripheral corticosterone (CORT) levels central corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH), while decreased its receptor 2 (CRHR2). Meta-regression revealed sex duration protocol covariates moderate these results. There was no significant effect glucocorticoid (GR), CRH 1 (CRHR1), pro- anti-inflammatory cytokines. findings suggest elicits function, providing an important tool investigate preclinical settings key pathological aspects related early-life exposure. Furthermore, researchers should be aware mixed outcomes markers brain.