ConclusionTo prevent pathogen-induc

ConclusionTo prevent pathogen-induced placental pathology and transmission of infections from mother to fetus, it is essential for the maternal immune system to establish protective immunity. Whereas many studies focus on the establishment of maternal-fetal immune tolerance to promote implantation and establish a healthy pregnancy, the role of cytotoxic dNK and virus-specific CD8+ T cells during placental infections has been an underexplored research area. A particular focus should be given to the molecular mechanisms that regulate cytotoxicity of dNK and CD8+ dT cells so that they promote maternal-fetal tolerance but remain able to respond to events that require participation of cytotoxic dNK and/or CD8+ dT. Viruses, bacteria and parasites take advantage of the immune privileged status of the placenta and the presence of many immune suppressive mechanisms. Investigation of the mechanisms by which infections are controlled in the placenta as well as the effects of infection and inflammation on Treg function, effector T cell activity and EVT migration, will provide a deeper understanding of the development of pregnancy complications that are associated with infections. Developing strategies to enhance maternal immunity to common infections may prevent development of pregnancy complications and diminish the risk of transmission of infections to the fetus that may lead to severe congenital syndromes.