Hormonal Regulation of Pulmonary Physiology, Innate Immunity, and Antibody Response to H1N1 Influenza Virus Infection during Pregnancy

Abstract

Background: The H1N1 influenza virus, with its global presence and potential for severe illness, poses a significant threat to pregnant women and their unborn children. Pregnant women face unique challenges when infected with the H1N1 influenza virus due to dynamic hormonal changes and physiological adaptations. Objective: This study was conducted to explore the relationships between hormonal regulation, pulmonary physiology, innate immunity, and antibody responses in the context of H1N1 infection during pregnancy. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted at Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar from June to December 2021. A sample of 80 pregnant women with H1N1 influenza was assessed, and their demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded. Hormonal assessments, pulmonary function tests, innate immune parameters, antibody response data and virological data were collected. Results: The results revealed significant hormonal fluctuations and reduced pulmonary function in pregnant women during H1N1 influenza. The hormonal fluctuations included variations in progesterone and estrogen levels. Pulmonary function tests indicated a decrease in FVC, reflecting challenges in respiratory function. Further data encompassed diverse innate immune responses with white blood cell counts (mean: 7,800 cells/μL, SD: 2,100 cells/μL), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios (mean: 2.0), and C-reactive protein levels (mean: 1.2 mg/dL, SD: 0.7 mg/dL). Additionally, antibody response data demonstrated varying levels of H1N1-specific IgM (mean: 6.2) and IgG (mean: 8.5) antibodies Conclusion: This study provides essential insights for healthcare providers and researchers, emphasizing the need for tailored management of H1N1 influenza in pregnancy. The findings lay the groundwork for future investigations in this field, ultimately contributing to improved strategies for preventing and managing influenza in this vulnerable population. Keywords: Pregnancy; H1N1 Influenza; Hormonal Regulation; Pulmonary Physiology; Innate Immunity