26. Immune system for KEATS
Page 1: Introduction
Biosciences for Midwifery Practice
Course code: 4KNIW001
Lecturer: Rebecca Daley, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care
Page 2: Learning Outcomes
Identify key structures of the immune system
Describe roles of innate and adaptive immune systems
Understand immunological changes during pregnancy, labor, and postnatal period
Discuss importance of immunological knowledge for midwives
Page 3: Preparation for Session
Before class:
Watch Khan Academy video on phagocytes (8 min)
Read "The Infant Microbiome" by Nash & Sloam (2022)
Page 4: Introduction to the Immune System
Infectious diseases caused by pathogens
Relationship between humans and pathogens
Humans develop protective mechanisms and use some pathogens to prime immune cells
Fetal immunity from maternal antibodies provides passive immunity
Page 5: Immune System Composition
Defense Mechanisms:
Physical protective mechanisms
Cellular and chemical defenses (immune cells and chemicals)
Mobile elements (cells/chemicals) are supported by non-mobile structures (lymphatic tissues/organs)
Importance of regulating immune response to minimize damage
Page 6: Immune Mechanisms
Innate Immunity:
Immediate response, present from birth
Adaptive Immunity:
Develops throughout life, responds to specific pathogens
Both types work together in defense
Page 7: Lymphatic System
Low-pressure circulatory system operating parallel to blood circulation
Lymphatic vessels transport lymph (immune cells)
Major ducts: Right lymphatic duct & thoracic duct
Lymphoid tissues hold 90% of immune cells
Page 8: Thymus and Spleen
Thymus Gland:
Large gland below thyroid, matures lymphocytes
Spleen:
Filters blood, contains B-lymphocytes and phagocytes
Page 9: Innate Immunity Physical Defenses
Human microbiome
Chemical defenses (gastric acid, lysozyme)
Mechanical defenses (coughing, sneezing)
Skin and mucosal barriers
Page 10: Innate Immunity Immune Cells
Immune Cell Types:
Neutrophils and macrophages: phagocytosis and inflammatory response
Complement system: proteins breaking down pathogens
Natural killer cells: rapid response to viral infections
Page 11: Adaptive Immunity
Identification of antigens and antibody production
First exposure: delayed response
Subsequent: rapid recognition and elimination
Types: Humoral (B-cells) and Cell-mediated (T-cells)
Page 12: Changes during Pregnancy
Immune system adapts to protect fetus
Unique immune environments required for implantation and birth
Influences: paternal antigens, immune privileges in uterus
Immunosuppressants (progesterone, hCG)
Page 13: Changes during Pregnancy Continued
Increased blood plasma affects lymphatic workload
White blood cell count rises, enhancing innate immunity
T-lymphocytes decrease, raising infection vulnerability
Page 14: Physiological Changes during Labour
Labour as an inflammatory process
Higher neutrophil levels in laboring mothers
Changes in T- and B-cells may influence labor timing
Page 15: Postnatal Changes
White cell count rises then normalizes by day 6
Colostrum and breastmilk rich in immune cells and antibodies
Page 16: Autoimmune Disorders
Examples: Type 1 diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis
Autoimmune disorders lead to tissue damage
Changes during pregnancy can vary based on disorder
Page 17: Microbiome Impact
Influenced by diet, birth mode, feeding method, antibiotic use
Vaginal seeding practice is not recommended
Page 18: Role of the Midwife
Vaccination: Promotes maternal vaccination
Infection Control: Encourages hygiene practices
Page 19: Understanding Assessment
Reflect on learning and confusion points
Page 20: Consolidating Learning
Complete core activities post-teaching
Read chapter in Anatomy and Physiology for Midwives
Watch Khan Academy videos
Page 21: References
Various studies and textbooks cited for further reading
Page 22: Additional References
Further foundational literature on immunology and midwifery
Page 23: Contact Information
Rebecca Daley
Email: beccy.daley@kcl.ac.uk