EDITORIAL : IMMUNOLOGICAL ROLE OF THE MATERNAL MICROBIOME IN PREGNANCY

In this Research Topic of Frontiers in Mucosal Immunity we have focused on the immunological role of the maternal microbiome in pregnancy. We have invited leading researchers in the medical field to contribute articles that summarize the advancements in this broad and complex topic. The understanding of microbiota and its function has been steadily expanding and recent advancements in molecular biology and the Human Microbiome Project have allowed us to take a new biological look on the microbiota and the host interactions. In case of pregnancy, the host has to be separated in two compartments namely the mother and the fetus. Furthermore, pregnancy itself induces a number of changes, which include immunological, hormonal, and metabolic changes - necessary for the maternal adaptation process and fetal development. Undoubtedly, the maternal microbiome influences the course of pregnancy and fetal development beyond plain colonization. Therefore in pregnancy, we have to consider the potential implications of microbiota or it`s changes on both compartments (the maternal and fetal) and importantly visa-versa. We have therefore selected 10 review and original articles covering the important aspect of the field.