Translational research : the journal of laboratory and clinical medicine
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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues into its third year, emerging data indicates increased risks associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, stillbirth, and risk of developmental defects in neonates. Here, we review clinical reports to date that address different COVID-19 pregnancy complications. We also document placental pathologies induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection, entry mechanisms in placental cells, and immune responses at the maternal-fetal interface. ⋯ However, because pregnant individuals were not included in the vaccine clinical trials, some pregnant individuals have safety concerns and are hesitant to take these vaccines. We describe the recent studies that have addressed the effectiveness and safety of the current vaccines during pregnancy. This review also sheds light on important areas that need to be carefully or more fully considered with respect to understanding SARS-CoV-2 disease mechanisms of concern during pregnancy.
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Review
Single-cell RNA sequencing in the context of neuropathic pain: Progress, challenges, and prospects.
Neuropathic pain, characterized by persistent or intermittent spontaneous pain as well as some unpleasant abnormal sensations, is one of the most prevalent health problems in the world. Ectopic nerve activity, central and peripheral nociceptive sensitization and many other potential mechanisms may participate in neuropathic pain. The complexity and ambiguity of neuropathic pain mechanisms result in difficulties in pain management, and existing treatment plans provide less-than-satisfactory relief. ⋯ Although scRNA-seq is a relatively new technique in the neuropathic pain field, there have been several studies based on animal models. However, because of the various differences between animals and humans, more attention should be given to translational medicine research. With the aid of scRNA-seq, researchers can further explore the mechanism of neuropathic pain to improve the clinical understanding of the diagnosis, treatment and management of neuropathic pain.