Association between viral infections and the development of autism spectrum disorder: A comprehensive review | ||||
| Aswan Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences | ||||
| Volume 1, Issue 2, October 2025 | ||||
| Document Type: Review article | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/ajabs.2025.400366.1007 | ||||
 View on SCiNiTO | ||||
| Author | ||||
Ammar Yasir Ahmed  
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| Department of pharmacy, Al-Maarif University, Alramadi, Iraq | ||||
| Abstract | ||||
| Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Recent studies suggest that maternal viral infections during pregnancy may increase the risk of ASD in offspring. This review examines the association between various viral infections—including influenza, cytomegalovirus, rubella, Zika virus, and SARS-CoV-2—and the development of ASD. Two main mechanisms are discussed: direct viral invasion of the fetal brain and maternal immune activation, both of which can affect brain development. Epidemiological evidence and animal studies support a possible connection, although more research is needed to confirm causality. The review also addresses concerns about vaccines, especially the MMR vaccine, and highlights that no evidence supports a link between vaccines and ASD. Understanding how viral infections influence fetal neurodevelopment is essential for identifying at-risk populations and developing preventive strategies. Continued research is necessary to clarify these associations and improve outcomes for children potentially affected by prenatal viral exposure. | ||||
| Keywords | ||||
| Autism Spectrum Disorder; Viral Infections; Pregnancy; Neurodevelopment | ||||
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