CD8 T cells and dendritic cells: key players in the attenuated maternal immune response to influenza infection

Foetal tolerance is essential for the survival of the semi-allogeneic foetus during pregnancy. Without this tolerance, the maternal immune system would rapidly mount an attack on this “foreign object”, destroying the developing cells of the foetus in the same manner as it would an invading pathogen. To induce this tolerance, changes must take place in the normal function of maternal immune cells. Different viruses use different mechanisms of host evasion and immune cell alteration to increase their chance of survival, and various pathogens, including respiratory viruses, have developed the ability to take advantage of changes that occur in the maternal immune system during pregnancy.
Source: Journal of Reproductive Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research