Inflammation helps the body fight infections and heal injuries. But when it gets out of control, it can damage tissues and cause serious diseases. Newborn babies, especially those born too early, are at special risk. Their immune system is still developing, which makes them more vulnerable to harmful inflammation. This can lead to life-threatening conditions such as sepsis, gut disease, lung problems, or brain injury. This research tested mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a possible treatment. MSCs are special cells found in many tissues. They can calm down harmful immune reactions and even help repair organs. The studies showed that MSCs reduce the activity of inflammatory cells, while boosting cells that help control inflammation. In a preterm sheep model of preterm birth, the same effects were seen. These findings show that MSCs are a very promising tool to one day protect newborns and adults from the damaging effects of excessive inflammation.
Ezgi Sengun (born in 1996) obtained her Master’s degree in Medical Biology from Radboud University in 2020. That same year, she started her PhD research at the Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center. She is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center.