Immune system: Development and acquisition of immunological competence
Autor
Moraes-Pinto, Maria Isabel de
Suano-Souza, Fabíola
Aranda, Carolina S.
Institución
Resumen
Objectives: To describe the ontogeny ofthe immune system and the adaptive mechanisms ofthe
immune system in the neonatal period, with an emphasis on transplacental antibody transport
and breastfeeding.
Source of data: Non-systematic literature review in the PubMed database.
Summary of the findings: The last two decades have witnessed a great advance in the knowledge of the immune system since conception. Several investigation tools have provided insight
on phenomena that were previously inadequately understood. Still expanding, the functional
and molecular investigation of various aspects of the immune system will make it possible to
understand how intra-uterus maternal-fetal exchanges, the maternal microbiota interacting
with the fetus and newborn, and the acquisition of immunological competence occur in healthy
and disease scenarios.
Conclusions: In-depth knowledge of the development of the immune system and of the adaptive
mechanisms that allow a safer transition to the extrauterine environment are fundamental
components of optimizing maternal and young infant vaccination, as well as the strategies
associated with full postnatal development, and the early diagnosis and treatment of innate
errors of immunity