Could pregnancy strengthen women’s immune defenses against influenza A? This is a question that Canadian researchers have recently explored. Their study, carried out on pregnant mice, reveals a specific defense mechanism that better protects pregnant women against this formidable infection.
This discovery challenges a preconceived idea: that pregnancy makes women more vulnerable to infections. In fact, researchers have observed that during pregnancy, a particular immune cell becomes activated in the nasal cavity. This leads to the production of an antiviral molecule, interleukin 17, which strengthens the body’s defenses. nez and upper respiratory tract.
Interleukin 17 has a key role in protection against the influenza A virus, which is responsible for major epidemics and pandemics. This molecule acts specifically in the nasal cavity, preventing the virus from spreading to the lungs. This is where the severe form of the infection can develop, leading to fatal complications.
Researchers believe this defense mechanism is an evolutionary adaptation. Indeed, it allows the body to protect the mother and her developing baby. By activating this immune response, the body ensures its own survival while preserving the health of the unborn child.
Other scientists, like Dr. Maziar Divangahi, say this immune response during pregnancy may well change the way we think about protection against the flu. Rather than focusing solely on traditional vaccines, this research paves the way for new therapeutic strategies.
Among the interesting prospects of this study is the development of specific vaccines or treatments that mimic this immune response. It is even possible that this protection extends beyond pregnancy, benefiting the general population.
Research also suggests that treatments administered nasally could increase the production of interleukin 17, creating a new form of antiviral defense. Researchers believe such treatments could potentially prevent serious respiratory infections, not just for pregnant women, but for everyone.
Finally, this study marks a turning point in the understanding of immunity during pregnancy, opening new avenues for public health and preventive medicine. Researchers are now tackling the question of reducing lung damage during viral infections, an approach that could also apply to other viruses like COVID-19.
What is interleukin-17 and what is its role in protecting against the flu?
Interleukin-17 is a key molecule of immune systemparticularly involved in inflammatory responses. It is produced by certain cells of the immune system and plays a key role in defense against infections, particularly respiratory infections. This molecule works primarily by activating the body’s antiviral defenses, particularly in the upper respiratory tract, where it helps prevent the spread of viruses to the lungs. During pregnancy, its role seems even more important, strengthening the pregnant woman’s immunity against pathogens such as the flu.
Recent research has shown that interleukin-17 could also be used to create new treatments, such as nasal vaccines. These treatments could strengthen the production of this molecule and thus improve protection against infections, not only during pregnancy, but also for the general population.
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