AIIMS Delhi breakthrough pinpoints how air pollution affects foetal growth
New Delhi: A team at AIIMS Delhi has achieved a major scientific breakthrough by mapping the exact biological pathway through which urban air pollution impacts foetal growth.
The ICMR-funded study, published in EMBO Molecular Medicine, details for the first time how fine particulate matter crosses the placenta, triggers inflammation, and interacts with a key growth protein essential for healthy development.
Researchers say the clarity brings hope for new strategies to protect mothers and babies. Understanding the step-by-step mechanism gives doctors and policymakers a clear target for future interventions, prenatal care guidelines, and public health measures.
The work builds on existing knowledge that pollutants can reach foetuses. Now, with the full molecular chain identified, the path to preventing long-term effects and safeguarding child health is clearer.
