Maternal separation alters peripheral immune responses associated with IFN-γ and OT in mice

The co-evolution of social behavior and the immune system plays a critical role in individuals' adaptation to their environment. However, also need for further research on the key molecules that co-regulate social behavior and immunity. This study focused on neonatal mice that were separated from their mothers for 4hours per day between the 6th and 16th day after birth. The results showed that these mice had lower plasma levels of IFN-γ and oxytocin, but higher levels of plasma glucocorticoids (GC), then impacting their social abilities. Additionally, maternal separation led to decreased levels of BDNF, IGF2, and CREB mRNAs in the hippocampus, while levels in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) remained unaffected. Maternal separation also resulted in increased levels of oxytocin and CRH mRNA in the hypothalamus, as well as an increase in CD45