South Korean researchers identify link between placental inflammation and childhood allergies

A pioneering study from South Korea has uncovered the mechanism by which inflammation of the placenta during pregnancy can predispose children to allergic conditions. Led by Professor Lee Heung-kyu of KAIST's Department of Biological Sciences, the research reveals that placental inflammation influences fetal immune development, subsequently increasing the likelihood of allergic responses post-birth. The team conducted experiments on pregnant mice, introducing lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an inflammatory agent, which triggered placental inflammation and elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). This inflammatory response attracted neutrophils to the placenta, causing tissue damage. The fetal stress response involved increased secretion of stress hormones, which affected immune system maturation, leading to the survival and heightened memory of T cells. These enduring T cells overreact to allergens after birth, as demonstrated by increased eosinophil levels and airway inflammation in mice exposed to dust mite allergens, mimicking asthma symptoms. Professor Lee stated, "This is the first globally to elucidate how maternal inflammatory responses during pregnancy impact fe...