Infectious Diseases in Maternal-Fetal Interface: Role of Immune System to Combat this Pathology and Avoid or Minimize a Possible Vertical Transmission

The field of infectious diseases at the maternal-fetal interface is a critical area of research, given the potential for vertical transmission of pathogens from mother to fetus. Pathogenic microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, and protozoans, can invade the placental membrane, posing significant risks to fetal health. The acronym TORCH highlights some of the most concerning pathogens: Toxoplasma gondii, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes virus. The immature immune system of infants further exacerbates the risk of postnatal infections. Recent studies have shown that pathogens like the Zika virus and protozoans such as Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, and Plasmodium can lead to severe outcomes, including miscarriage, embryonic reabsorption, and low birth weight. Despite the use of classical drugs to mitigate placental infections, challenges remain, particularly with protozoans, due to drug resistance and potential complications during pregnancy. There is a pressing need for more comprehensive studies to ensure the safety and efficacy of treatments during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of understanding microorganism interactions with the placenta to develop effective diagnostic, treatment, and vaccine strategies.

This research topic aims to explore the role of the immune system in combating infectious diseases at the maternal-fetal interface and to minimize the risk of vertical transmission. The primary objectives include understanding the mechanisms of pathogen invasion and immune response at the placental level, developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and evaluating the safety and efficacy of existing treatments during pregnancy. By addressing these questions, the research seeks to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes and reduce the global burden of congenital infections.

To gather further insights into the complex interactions at the maternal-fetal interface, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Parasite-host interaction in the placental environment.
- New alternatives for diagnosis of infectious diseases in the placental environment.
- New alternatives for treatment or prevention of infectious diseases
in the placental environment.
- Immune response triggered by pathogens of congenital importance.

Keywords: Toxoplasma gondii, Pathogens, congenital infection, placenta, trophoblast, pregnancy, diagnosis, treatment, vaccines, immune response, parasite-host interaction., Trypanosoma, Plasmodium, Zika virus, TORCH

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.