# Single-cell atlas of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum

## TL;DR

This study creates a detailed map of immune cells in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum to understand immune changes and potential treatments.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is the construction of a single-cell atlas of PBMCs in HG patients, revealing immune cell dynamics and potential therapeutic targets.

## Key findings

- HG patients show increased neutrophil proportions and upregulated interferon genes and pathways.
- Interferon-related transcription factors like STAT1, IRF7, and IRF9 are significantly more active in HG patients.
- NK cells and CD14+ monocytes show enhanced functionality, while T cell activity is reduced in HG patients.

## Abstract

In early pregnancy, approximately 70% of women experience nausea and vomiting, with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) can potentially lead to severe fluid and nutritional imbalances that require hospitalization. Although HG often resolves on its own in the early stages of pregnancy, its severity is linked to ketosis and elevated serum urea levels, as well as an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. To further investigate the immune status of HG patients, we plan to conduct single-cell transcriptomic sequencing and plasma proteomic analysis of peripheral blood samples. This approach aims to elucidate the interactions and mechanisms of PBMCs and provide new insights into potential therapeutic interventions. Our findings indicate an increased proportion of neutrophils in HG patients, along with the upregulation of interferon genes and associated pathways. Notably, the activity of interferon-related TFs, such as STAT1, IRF7, and IRF9, was significantly elevated. Additionally, we observed a decrease in T cell activity in HG patients, while the functionality of NK cells and CD14+ monocytes was enhanced. The elevated plasma levels of NDEL1 may also have implications for fetal development. We have constructed a single-cell atlas of PBMCs from pregnant women with HG, which is expected to enhance our understanding of the immune response in HG and identify potential therapeutic targets for this condition.