Voxel-based morphometry using DARTEL in the mouse reveals differential impact of early and late prenatal inflammation on adult brain

Abstract

Mice exposed to maternal inflammation during prenatal life are used model aspects of neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. We used DARTEL to process images from 7T scanner and compare brain morphology in adult mice exposed to prenatal inflammation in early and late gestation with controls. Regional volumes in hippocampal-striatal regions were lower and lateral ventricular volume greater in mice exposed early in gestation compared to controls. In late exposed, volumes were lower in cerebellum, hippocampus, lateral ventricles and 4th ventricles larger. Time of exposure determines neuroanatomical outcome of prenatal inflammation and may be relevant to schizophrenia and autism.