Infection during pregnancy has no effect on information processing in offspring

Infections during pregnancy can disrupt the normal brain development of the fetus. We simulated a viral infection during pregnancy in an animal model to investigate the long-term effects on the behavior of the offspring. In contrast to existing literature, we found no changes in information processing and social behavior of the mice after birth. The diet given to the mother had no apparent effect on the behavior or immune system of the offspring. Given the increased interest in the long-term effects of infections during pregnancy due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important to publish our negative results. This will allow the research community to better assess the usefulness of the animal model we used and learn more about the use of dietary interventions  during pregnancy.