[Interaction between oxidative stress and inflammatory processes in fetal membranes: One Health].

Abstract

The balance between oxidative mechanisms and inflammatory responses is essential for the proper progression of pregnancy, as it preserves the functionality and integrity of the fetal membranes. Among them, the amnion plays a key protective role by regulating maternal-fetal exchange and interpreting chemical and mechanical signals from the uterine microenvironment. However, various adverse stimuli, particularly bacterial infections mediated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), environmental contaminants, sustained physiological stress, or metabolic disturbances, can disrupt this homeostasis, increasing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promoting the release of proinflammatory cytokines that compromise cellular and tissue stability. When these pathways remain imbalanced over time, a dysfunction known as the redox-inflammatory axis emerges, which is associated with structural damage, extracellular matrix degradation, premature aging of amniotic cells, and a considerable increase in the risk of preterm birth. Examining these interactions through a One Health perspective enables integration of biological, environmental, and social factors, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of maternal-fetal health and guiding the development of more effective preventive strategies, such as zoonotic surveillance and food safety, to mitigate risks during pregnancy.