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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
08:19
Isolation of Leukocytes from the Human Maternal-fetal Interface
Published on: May 21, 2015
Normal pregnancy is associated with peripheral leukocyte activation
P Luppi1, C Haluszczak, M Trucco
1Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Pediatrics, Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. luppip+@pitt.edu
Summary
Pregnancy alters circulating leukocytes, increasing granulocytes and CD8+ T cells. Maternal leukocytes show signs of activation, indicating systemic changes during gestation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Reproductive Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Normal pregnancy is characterized by complex immune system adaptations.
- Previous studies reported conflicting findings regarding leukocyte subset changes during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate alterations in peripheral blood leukocyte subpopulations during normal pregnancy.
- To further analyze the phenotype and activation status of maternal leukocytes.
Main Methods:
- Whole-blood flow cytometry was employed.
- Analysis of leukocyte subsets using cell surface antigens and activation markers.
- Comparison between 33 pregnant women (third trimester) and 26 non-pregnant controls.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in granulocytes and CD8+ T lymphocytes was observed in pregnant women.
- Upregulation of adhesion molecule expression was noted on granulocytes, monocytes, and T lymphocytes.
- These findings suggest systemic leukocyte activation during pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy significantly modifies the composition of maternal circulating leukocytes.
- Systemic activation of leukocytes is a feature of normal pregnancy.
- These immune alterations are crucial for successful gestation.
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