Conclusions
These findings supported that hypoactivated decidual CD8+ T cells might possess compromised ability in chronically HBV-infected term pregnant women. Our study provides robust evidence for the necessity and importance of antiviral intervention in HBV-PW to prevent MTCT of HBV.
Results
Compared with HC-PW, the frequency of CD8+ T cells from the term placenta of HBV-PW was significantly reduced. These cells showed decreased expression of activation molecules CD69 and HLA-DR; thus, decidual CD8+ T cells from HBV-PW demonstrated hypofunctional signature as evidenced by significantly reduced production of IFN-γ, as well as compromised ability of degranulation and proliferation. Conclusions: These findings supported that hypoactivated decidual CD8+ T cells might possess compromised ability in chronically HBV-infected term pregnant women. Our study provides robust evidence for the necessity and importance of antiviral intervention in HBV-PW to prevent MTCT of HBV.