Characterization of Maternal and Fetal Immunity Following in Utero Spina Bifida Repair and Surgery-Induced Preterm Birth.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Fetal surgery (FS) for spina bifida (SB) repair improves infant outcomes; however, spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) is common. We aimed to evaluate maternal and fetal immune responses following FS for SB repair.

Method

Pregnant participants undergoing fetoscopic SB repair at 24-26 weeks of gestational age (GA) were prospectively recruited and compared to GA matched low-risk controls. Blood samples were collected at baseline, 2-week post-surgery (POD14), and delivery. Cytokine analysis, flow cytometry, and T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing were performed.

Results

sPTB occurred in 5/6 of the FS group (0/6 of controls). Maternal blood in the FS group demonstrated increased alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and anti-inflammatory IL-1RA at baseline and POD14, increased pro-

SUBMITTER: Martinez Carmona K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12692994 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature