Exam 3: Dr. Pinchuk Fetal and Neonatal Immunology Flashcards
When is the immune system fully formed?
At birth. All acquired immune response in the newborn are primary responses
What do newborn mammals obtain immunoglobulins from?
Their mother either by direct transfer across the placenta or by ingestion Ig-reach colostrum immediately after birth
What may the failure of the passive transfer result in?
The newborn suffering from overwhelming infections
What does milk provide?
A constant supply of Ig (mostly IgA), which helps protect the newborn against intestinal infections
What do mothers provide?
Protective antibodies to their young both before and after birth
What does IgG come through?
Placenta
How is IgA transported to the newborn?
By poly-Ig-receptor
What does the receptor FcRn do?
Transports IgG from the blood stream into the extracellular spaces
What happens to the level of IgG during the first year of life?
Transient decrease
What is the most critical period in life? Why?
6 months, there is no maternal IgG
What is pregnancy the one natural situation for?
The production of anti-MHC antibodies
What do paternal HLA isoforms that differ from the mother’s HLA type have the potential to do?
Stimulate an alloreactive immune response
What is immune complex-mediated inhibition of naive B cells used to do?
Prevent hemolytic anemia of the newborn
What does a primary immune response produce?
Naive and memory B cells
What does a secondary immune response?
Inhibit naive B cells and activate memory B cells