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Fetal, Neonatal, and Pediatric Immunology
1Vetmeduni, Department of Small Animals and Horses, Clinical Center for Reproduction, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Vienna, Austria.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|September 19, 2025
Summary
This review discusses maternal, fetal, and neonatal immune system development, highlighting transient immunosuppression during pregnancy in cats and dogs. It also covers strategies to enhance neonatal immune defense through passive antibody transfer and other methods.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Reproductive Immunology
- Neonatal Immunology
Background:
- Understanding maternal, fetal, and neonatal immune systems is crucial but incomplete.
- Pregnancy involves complex immune adaptations in both mother and fetus.
- Species-specific differences exist, particularly between domestic animals like cats and dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the development of maternal, fetal, and neonatal immunity.
- To discuss achievements and remaining questions in the field.
- To explore strategies for enhancing neonatal immune defense.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on maternal-fetal-neonatal immunology.
- Comparative analysis of immune adaptations during pregnancy in cats and dogs.
- Discussion of methods to bolster neonatal immunity.
Main Results:
- Pregnancy is established via transient immunosuppression in both cats and dogs, despite species-specific differences.
- Maternally derived antibodies provide passive immunity to neonates, aiding defense against infections.
- Various methods, including hyperimmune solutions and vaccinations, can enhance neonatal immune responses.
Conclusions:
- Significant progress has been made, yet gaps in knowledge persist regarding immune system development.
- Transient immunosuppression is a conserved mechanism for successful pregnancy establishment.
- Proactive strategies are available to improve neonatal immune competence and health.
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