Vertical transmission and maternal passive immunity post-SARS-CoV-2
Hanie Karimi1,2, Vahid Mansouri3,2, Nima Rezaei4,2,5
1School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Future Virology
|October 12, 2023
Summary
This study explores the potential for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) to transmit from mother to baby via placenta or breast milk. It also examines the transfer of maternal antibodies, discussing potential benefits and harms to the fetus or infant.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is caused by SARS-CoV-2, a highly contagious virus.
- Vertical transmission (VT) of viruses from mother to child is a known phenomenon for certain pathogens.
- Maternal antibodies are crucial for neonatal immunity, as infants possess underdeveloped immune systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesized vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from mother to fetus/infant.
- To explore the potential transmission of maternal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 through the placenta and breast milk.
- To discuss the implications of these transmission routes on fetal/infant health, weighing potential benefits against harms.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on SARS-CoV-2 transmission routes.
- Analysis of immunological principles regarding antibody transfer in pregnancy and lactation.
- Hypothetical modeling of SARS-CoV-2 and antibody transmission dynamics.
Main Results:
- While direct SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission remains under investigation, evidence suggests it is possible.
- Maternal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 are likely transferred to the fetus/infant via the placenta and breast milk.
- The presence of maternal antibodies may offer some protection but requires further study regarding efficacy and duration.
Conclusions:
- The potential for SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission necessitates careful consideration for pregnant individuals and newborns.
- Maternal antibody transfer offers a potential protective mechanism, but its net benefit requires comprehensive evaluation.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the precise mechanisms, risks, and protective effects of SARS-CoV-2 and associated antibodies in the context of vertical transmission.
Keywords:
COVID-19SARS-CoV-2antibodybreast milkimmunitypassive immunityvaccinevertical transmissionvirusMore Related Videos
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