These protective effects were associated with the modulation of the Akt/GSK3β signaling pathway.<h4>Conclusion</h4>LY294002 and LiCl reduced neuroinflammation and preserved the blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity in the neonatal ExPEC meningitis model, likely via modulation of the Akt/GSK3β pathway. This evidence concerns the gene AKT1 and meningitis.