The Quanta Podcast

During Pregnancy, a Fake 'Infection' Protects the Fetus

7 snips
May 1, 2024
Placental cells mimic viral infection to activate immune defenses for protecting the fetus, using a fake virus to keep defenses on. Todori Jane's breakthrough uncovers placenta's unique immune response involving ancient viral elements in human genomes.
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1
Introduction
00:00 • 3min
2
Unraveling the Placenta's Immunological Deception
03:28 • 2min
3
Unveiling the Placenta's Protective Fake Infections
05:27 • 4min