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Cells from grandma help keep fetus safe

Immune system attack thwarted by protective T cells

UNDER GRANDMA’S WING  Cells from the maternal grandmother manipulate a mother’s immune system during pregnancy to protect grandchildren that share grandmother’s genes, new research shows. 

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By Tina Hesman Saey

- More than 2 years ago

Parents often complain that grandparents meddle in child-rearing. New research suggests that such meddling starts in the womb, where cells from grandma manipulate the mother’s immune system.