Could pregnancy strengthen women's immune defenses against influenza A? This is a question that Canadian researchers have recently explored. Their study, conducted on pregnant mice, reveals a specific defense mechanism that better protects pregnant women against this formidable infection.
This discovery challenges a common belief: that pregnancy makes women more vulnerable to infections. In fact, researchers observed that during pregnancy, a particular immune cell becomes active in the nasal cavity. This triggers the production of an antiviral molecule, interleukin-17, which strengthens the defenses of the nose and upper respiratory tract.
Interleukin-17 plays a key role in protecting against the influenza A virus, which is responsible for major epidemics and pandemics. This molecule specifically acts in the nasal cavity, preventing the virus from spreading to the lungs. It is in the lungs that the severe form of the infection can develop, leading to fatal complications.
Researchers believe that this defense mechanism is an evolutionary adaptation. Indeed, it enables the body to protect both the mother and her developing baby. By activating this immune response, the body ensures its own survival while safeguarding the health of the unborn child.
Other scientists, such as Dr. Maziar Divangahi, claim that this immune reaction during pregnancy could significantly change how we perceive protection against influenza. Rather than focusing solely on traditional vaccines, this research opens the door to new therapeutic strategies.
Among the promising avenues 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.
The research also suggests that treatments administered nasally could boost the production of interleukin-17, thereby creating a new form of antiviral defense. Researchers believe that such treatments could potentially prevent severe respiratory infections, not only for pregnant women but for everyone.
Lastly, this study marks a turning point in understanding immunity during pregnancy, paving the way for new approaches in public health and preventive medicine. Researchers are now addressing the issue of reducing lung damage during viral infections, an approach that could also apply to other viruses, such as COVID-19.
What is interleukin-17 and what is its role in protecting against influenza?
Interleukin-17 is a key molecule in the immune system, particularly involved in inflammatory responses. It is produced by certain immune cells and plays a critical role in defending against infections, especially respiratory infections.
This molecule primarily acts by activating the body's antiviral defenses, particularly in the upper respiratory tract, where it helps prevent viruses from spreading to the lungs. During pregnancy, its role appears to be even more significant, enhancing the immune defenses of pregnant women against pathogens like influenza.
Recent research has shown that interleukin-17 could also be used to develop new treatments, such as nasal vaccines. These treatments could boost the production of this molecule, thereby improving protection against infections, not just during pregnancy but also for the general population.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND