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Isolation of Leukocytes from the Murine Tissues at the Maternal-Fetal Interface
Published on: May 21, 2015
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Immunological implications of pregnancy-induced microchimerism
Jeremy M Kinder1,2, Ina A Stelzer3, Petra C Arck3
1Division of Infectious Disease, Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
Nature Reviews. Immunology
|May 9, 2017
Summary
Maternal and fetal cells can persist in individuals, creating a
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Genetics
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Immunological identity is traditionally based on inherited antigens.
- Maternal and fetal cells can be exchanged between mother and offspring.
- These cells persist long-term, forming a 'microchiome'.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the immunological implications of microchimerism.
- To discuss the benefits and consequences of persistent foreign cells.
- To explore the role of microchimerism in promoting genetic fitness.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of immunological studies.
- Analysis of findings on cell persistence and transfer.
- Discussion of genetic and reproductive fitness implications.
Main Results:
- Vertically transferred cells persist postnatally.
- Mothers retain fetal cells after pregnancy.
- These cells may improve future pregnancy outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Microchimerism challenges traditional immunological identity.
- Persistent foreign cells are actively retained for fitness benefits.
- Understanding the 'microchiome' is crucial for reproductive immunology.
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