When it comes to increasing inflammation during pregnancy, fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) is to blame, a Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study finds.

While it was previously known that poor air quality is harmful, this study highlights the importance of a healthy pregnancy environment on a single-cell level. The relationship between PM2.5 and maternal and fetal health was examined by measuring histone profiles in 20-week pregnant and non-pregnant women. Findings confirmed that histone profiles in pregnant women were affected and the normal balance of cytokine genes was disrupted. Histones aid in releasing cytokines, or proteins that are tied to inflammation.  

“This study represents a substantial step forward in understanding the biological pathways through which PM2.5 exposure affects pregnancy, maternal health, and fetal development. Its advanced methodology represents a significant innovation for how we study immune responses to environmental exposures,” said corresponding author Kari Nadeau, John Rock Professor of Climate and Population Studies and chair of the Department of Environmental Health.

Researchers hope this study allows for a better understanding of what can be done for expecting mothers.

“Policy interventions to improve air quality, as well as clinical guidelines to help pregnant women reduce their exposure to pollution, could have a direct impact on reducing pregnancy complications,” said co-author Youn Soo Jung, research associate in the Department of Environmental Health.

Source: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/fine-particulate-air-pollution-may-play-a-role-in-adverse-birth-outcomes/