When babies are born, they are at their most vulnerable, as their immune systems are still developing and they are too young to be vaccinated. But thanks to the protection from antibodies they receive in the womb, through a process called maternal immunization, many babies arrive into the world with a special set of protections already circulating inside of them. Still, it’s a sophisticated process that can sometimes defy convention as these antibodies navigate their own unique path through the body.
In a special series of the Get Science Podcast, we’ll explore some of science’s unknowns with the scientists pushing the boundaries of biology as they travel into unchartered territory. For this episode, we chat with Kathrin Jansen, Pfizer’s Senior Vice President and Head of Vaccine Research and Development, who breaks down how the powerful tool of maternal immunization works, the challenges it presents and the steps being taken to broaden its reach.
Listen here for Kathrin’s insights.