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[Placental microbiota and pregnancy]
1Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University/Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China.
Abstract:
The role of microbes in regulating the metabolism and immune function of the body has been highlighted. The interactions of host-microbe and microbial-microbe have existed before the birth. However, the existence of placental microbiota and their regulatory effects on pregnancy are still controversial. It was found that placental microbes might be implanted into the placenta via urogenital-placental, gastrointestinal-placental, and oral-placental routes. Microbiome may play a role in promoting the outcome of benign pregnancy, and the placental microbiota in pathological pregnancy may be associated to adverse pregnancy outcome. Placenta and amniotic fluid microbes have been linked to abortion, chorioamnionitis, premature rupture of membranes, premature delivery and stillbirth in Cultivation-dependent and Cultivation-independent studies. Obesity, gestational diabetes mellitus, probiotics and antibiotics during pregnancy may be the main factors affecting placenta microbiology.
Insights
The study explores placental microbes, their implantation routes, and their controversial role in pregnancy outcomes. Findings suggest placental microbiota may influence benign or adverse pregnancy results.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Host-microbe and microbial-microbe interactions are fundamental to human health.
- The existence and role of placental microbiota in pregnancy remain debated.
- Potential implantation routes include urogenital, gastrointestinal, and oral pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the controversial role of placental microbiota in pregnancy.
- To explore the association between placental microbes and pregnancy outcomes.
- To identify factors influencing placental microbiology during gestation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized both cultivation-dependent and cultivation-independent study methods.
- Analyzed the link between placental and amniotic fluid microbes and adverse pregnancy events.
- Examined the impact of maternal factors on placental microbiota composition.
Main Results:
- Placental microbes are implicated in various adverse pregnancy outcomes, including abortion, chorioamnionitis, premature rupture of membranes, premature delivery, and stillbirth.
- The composition of placental microbiota may differ between benign and pathological pregnancies.
- Maternal obesity, gestational diabetes mellitus, probiotic use, and antibiotic use are key factors influencing placental microbiology.
Conclusions:
- Placental microbiota may play a significant role in regulating pregnancy outcomes.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of placental microbiota implantation and function.
- Understanding placental microbiology is crucial for improving maternal and fetal health.
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