A new study by the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health has uncovered how fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, in air pollution can disrupt the immune system of pregnant women.
This is the first research to investigate the effects of these particles on both mother and fetus at the cellular level.
This was reported by WP Tech.
How the Study Was Conducted
The researchers analyzed the effects of PM2.5 particles on women in their 20th week of pregnancy and compared the results with women who were not pregnant. They discovered notable changes in the immune systems of pregnant participants exposed to air pollution.
By mapping DNA changes within cells, the scientists found that air pollutants interfered with intracellular proteins responsible for releasing cytokines, molecules that regulate inflammation in the body.
Exposure to PM2.5 particles altered histone profiles in pregnant women, disrupting cytokine gene activity. This led to increased inflammation, which the researchers linked to higher risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
The study highlights that these inflammatory effects not only harm the mother but also pose risks to the developing fetus.
"Our results show the importance of minimizing pregnant women's exposure to air pollution to protect the health of mothers and fetuses," said Youn Soo Jung, co-author of the study.
Reducing Risks
The researchers stress the need for policy changes to improve air quality and recommend clinical advice to help pregnant women reduce their exposure to pollution.
While it can be challenging for individuals to completely avoid air pollutants, efforts to lower PM2.5 emissions can have a direct impact on reducing pregnancy-related complications.
