Preeclampsia: The silent catalyst for autism spectrum disorder in offspring

Preeclampsia, a pregnancy-specific disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, has been hypothesized to be associated with the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in offspring. This review synthesizes epidemiological evidence and examines biological mechanisms, proposing a significant association between preeclampsia and ASD. The analysis demonstrates an increased risk of ASD in offspring of mothers with preeclampsia, with early-onset and severe preeclampsia likely exerting a more significant effect. Biological plausibility is substantiated by preeclampsia-induced disruptions to fetal brain development, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and placental dysfunction. The review highlights the imperative for future research to clarify these mechanisms and inform the development of preventive strategies, providing critical insights for optimizing pregnancy management and ASD interventions.