How Stress Affects the Brain (IMAGE) University of Pennsylvania Caption The study by University of Pennsylvania researchers revealed a relationship between stress, the maternal vaginal microbiome, and offspring gut and brain development. Credit Courtesy of the University of Pennsylvania Usage Restrictions In context of reporting License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.