The Maternal Brain: An Organ with Peripartal Plasticity

Neural Plasticity, 2014 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2014/574159 · Published: May 4, 2014

Simple Explanation

The peripartum period in mammalian females is a time of significant physiological changes that prepare them for motherhood. These changes include alterations in brain plasticity, which is crucial for fetal development and maternal mental health. Dysregulation of these mechanisms can lead to disorders like preeclampsia and postpartum mood disorders. This review explores peripartum adaptations, focusing on neurogenesis and potential underlying molecular mechanisms and consequences of their malfunction. This review covers common physiological and behavioral adaptations during the peripartum period, emphasizing peripartum-associated plasticity, such as changes in neurogenesis and molecular mechanisms. It also discusses the consequences of malfunctions in these systems.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review Article

Key Findings

1
Peripartum-associated changes in neural plasticity include adult neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and dendritic remodeling in various brain regions, essential for fetal development and maternal health.
2
The maternal brain undergoes structural changes during the peripartum period, including volume changes in the hippocampus and pituitary, as well as alterations in receptor expression and synaptic plasticity.
3
Hormonal systems, especially oxytocin (OXT) and prolactin (PRL), play a vital role in maternal behavior, anxiety, and stress responses, with changes in receptor expression influencing these processes.

Research Summary

The peripartum period is characterized by significant physiological and behavioral adaptations in the maternal body, driven by alterations in neural plasticity. The maternal brain undergoes structural and functional reorganization, impacting regions crucial for maternal behavior, stress response, and cognitive abilities. Hormonal systems like oxytocin and prolactin, along with angiogenic factors, are key regulators of these adaptations, and their malfunction can lead to peripartum-associated disorders.

Practical Implications

Understanding Maternal Brain Plasticity

Provides insights into the physiological basis of maternal behavior and mental health during the peripartum period.

Identifying Risk Factors for Postpartum Disorders

Highlights potential mechanisms for the development of preeclampsia and postpartum mood disorders, aiding in early detection and intervention.

Developing Targeted Therapeutic Interventions

Suggests potential targets for therapeutic interventions aimed at supporting maternal mental health and preventing peripartum-associated disorders.

Study Limitations

1
The review relies on existing research, which may have methodological limitations or inconsistencies.
2
The specific mechanisms underlying peripartum-associated neuroplasticity are not fully understood, requiring further investigation.
3
The translation of findings from animal models to human mothers may have limitations.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Neurology