On World Health Day, focus turns to the wellbeing of mothers and babies – University of Oulu study sheds light on the mechanisms behind spontaneous preterm birth
Researchers have found encouraging evidence suggesting that a protein known as alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) could help prevent inflammation-induced preterm births. In an experimental study using a mouse model, treatment with AAT reduced the incidence of inflammation-triggered preterm births by more than half in mice lacking the ability to produce the protein naturally. The findings were presented at Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society for Reproductive Investigation (SRI) held in the United States in March.
The discovery supports earlier research indicating that levels of AAT are lower in the placentas of prematurely born infants compared to those born at full term. AAT’s primary function is to protect tissues during damage or bacterial infection. Its concentration increases in response to inflammation and tissue injury. Moreover, AAT levels in a mother’s blood have been shown to rise during pregnancy.
Preterm birth is a major health risk
Preterm birth is a global issue affecting one in ten pregnancies. It exposes newborns to serious health risks, such as respiratory difficulties and neurological complications, and significantly increases the likelihood of neonatal death.
For decades, researchers have sought effective means to prevent preterm births, but no consistently effective treatments have emerged so far. The potential role of AAT in preventing premature delivery therefore represents a significant scientific breakthrough.
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin protects the placenta and supports pregnancy
Previous study has shown that AAT is present in placental tissue, both within the cells and in the extracellular matrix structures that surround them. These structures act as a kind of “glue”, anchoring the placenta to the uterine wall and helping to maintain balance between the maternal and fetal immune systems.
If AAT levels are too low, the connective tissue of the placenta may become damaged, which could trigger preterm birth. According to the researchers, AAT deficiency and the resulting tissue damage may be one reason why some pregnancies end prematurely.
The newly conducted mouse study aimed to test whether AAT treatment could prevent preterm labour. The results were promising: in AAT-deficient mice, treatment delayed labour and significantly reduced the number of preterm births.
If AAT’s protective effect is confirmed in further studies, it could mark a major step forward in the prevention of preterm birth and the associated health complications. At present, researchers are continuing to investigate the protective role of AAT during pregnancy and its potential to support the health of unborn children.
World Health Day shines a light on maternal and infant wellbeing
World Health Day is celebrated on 7 April 2025, and this year the focus is on improving the health of mothers and newborns. To mark the occasion, the World Health Organization (WHO) is launching the Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures campaign, which serves as a reminder that every mother and baby has the right to a safe pregnancy, delivery, and start in life.