08/07/2024
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Fetal-maternal chimerism occurs when fetal cells cross the placenta and integrate into the mother’s tissues during pregnancy, creating a long-lasting cellular presence. These fetal cells can persist in the mother’s body for decades and are capable of differentiating into a variety of cell types, including immune cells and potentially contributing to tissue repair. The phenomenon of fetal-maternal chimerism has implications for maternal health, potentially influencing autoimmune conditions, cancer susceptibility, and tissue regeneration. While the exact effects of these fetal cells in the mother remain an area of active research, their presence highlights a unique and enduring biological connection between mother and child.
