Impact of Praziquantel Treatment During Pregnancy on Offspring's Immune Responses to Schistosoma Mansoni
Author Information
Author(s): Tweyongyere Robert, Mawa Patrice A, Kihembo Macklyn, Jones Frances M, Webb Emily L, Cose Stephen, Dunne David W, Vennervald Birgitte J, Elliott Alison M
Primary Institution: Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
Hypothesis
Does praziquantel treatment during pregnancy affect the immune responsiveness of offspring to schistosome antigens?
Conclusion
Praziquantel treatment during pregnancy boosts maternal immune responses but does not affect the immune responses of offspring to schistosome antigens by age one year.
Supporting Evidence
- Praziquantel treatment during pregnancy significantly boosted maternal cytokine responses.
- Offspring showed low cytokine production in response to schistosome antigens.
- Maternal antibody levels correlated with cord blood antibody levels.
Takeaway
Moms who took a medicine during pregnancy to fight a worm didn't pass on any extra protection to their babies against that worm's germs.
Methodology
A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted in Uganda, examining cytokine and antibody responses in offspring of women treated with praziquantel during pregnancy.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in maternal reporting and sample contamination.
Limitations
The study did not assess long-term immune responses beyond one year of age in offspring.
Participant Demographics
388 women with Schistosoma mansoni infection during pregnancy.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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