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A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development
Published on: June 24, 2020
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A perfect storm: fetal inflammation and the developing immune system.
Dajana Sabic1, Joyce M Koenig2
1Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Pediatric Research
|September 20, 2019
Summary
Histologic chorioamnionitis, an inflammatory placental condition, can lead to preterm birth and infant complications. This review explores how fetal inflammation from chorioamnionitis impacts postnatal immunity.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Histologic chorioamnionitis is a placental inflammation often preceding preterm birth.
- Fetal exposure to inflammation is linked to infant inflammatory complications and increased infection susceptibility.
- The impact of chorioamnionitis-induced fetal inflammation on postnatal immunity requires further understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the effects of fetal inflammation due to chorioamnionitis on postnatal immune responses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating chorioamnionitis, fetal inflammation, and postnatal immunity.
Main Results:
- Chorioamnionitis is associated with significant inflammatory processes.
- Fetal inflammation may alter the developing immune system.
- Preterm infants exposed to chorioamnionitis show increased risks for neonatal and later-life infections.
Conclusions:
- Fetal exposure to inflammation from chorioamnionitis has implications for the maturation and function of the postnatal immune system.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the long-term immunological consequences.
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