Ep. 184 - Does Autism Begin in the Womb? The Maternal Immune Connection with Dr. Judy Van der Water

The Smartest Doctor in the Room

In this episode of the Smartest Doctor in the Room, host Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with renowned immunologist and autism researcher Dr. Judy Van der Water from the UC Davis MIND Institute. Together, they dive deep into the groundbreaking research linking maternal immune health, the fetal microbiome, and the rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Dr. Van der Water shares her pioneering work on gestational immune dysregulation, including the role of maternal autoantibodies (MAR antibodies) in fetal brain development—and why these findings challenge long-held misconceptions about autism’s origins. They also tackle tough questions: Is autism risk determined in utero? How do environmental toxins and epigenetics play a role? And what about vaccines?
From early detection strategies to community resources for families, this conversation blends cutting-edge science with practical hope. Whether you’re a parent, clinician, or simply curious about the immune-brain connection, this episode offers invaluable insights into one of medicine’s most urgent mysteries.
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