How does immunotherapy with blocking antibodies work?
Dec 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
Women generally have a specific antibody in their serum known as blocking antibody. However, some women lack this blocking antibody, which can easily lead to recurrent miscarriage and requires treatment. Blood can be collected from the spouse (male blood), and lymphocytes extracted and cultured from this blood are then injected into the woman's body. Blocking antibodies play a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy and in fetal development after conception.
Many women experience immune issues related to blocking antibodies during pregnancy, which can affect the fetus. So how is immune deficiency of blocking antibodies treated?
How is immune deficiency of blocking antibodies treated?
There is normally a specific antibody in women's serum known as a blocking antibody. However, some women lack this type of antibody, making them prone to recurrent miscarriages and requiring treatment. The treatment involves extracting blood—specifically lymphocytes—from the male partner (husband), culturing and multiplying these lymphocytes, and then injecting them into the woman’s body. Blocking antibodies play a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy and supporting fetal development. Attempting pregnancy without treating this condition increases the risk of miscarriage. Therefore, women should undergo testing for this condition before conception to confirm their health status. During treatment, it is important for women to stay relaxed and maintain a calm, positive attitude.
This antibody is called a "blocking antibody" because it can suppress lymphocyte reactions, block cytotoxic effects of maternal lymphocytes on embryonic trophoblasts, prevent the identification of fetal antigens by helper cells, protect the embryo from attack by the maternal immune system, block lymphocyte responses to allogeneic antigens, and promote the production of macrophage migration inhibitory factors. Most patients with recurrent spontaneous abortion are found to have deficiencies in this blocking antibody. Due to the absence or insufficiency of these antibodies, the mother's body may strongly reject the fetus, leading to halted embryonic development, intrauterine growth restriction, and ultimately miscarriage.
For immune deficiency related to blocking antibodies, it is essential to seek timely medical care and closely monitor physical conditions to avoid adverse effects on the fetus. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!
