Researchers have discovered a method to prevent popular antibody-based medicines from crossing the placenta and potentially affecting a developing fetus. The solution involves adding albumin to these drugs.
This discovery addresses a growing concern about the potential risks of these increasingly common treatments for conditions like autoimmune diseases and cancer during pregnancy. Antibody drugs are designed to target specific proteins, and while effective for the mother, they can potentially reach the fetus via the placenta, causing unintended consequences.
According to a report published in *Nature* on August 20, 2026, adding albumin—a protein found in blood—to antibody-based medicines effectively blocks their passage through the placenta. The precise mechanism isn't detailed in the source, but the result is a significant step towards ensuring fetal safety.
The research, detailed in a paper with doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02553-x, offers a potential solution for pregnant individuals requiring these therapies, allowing them to receive necessary treatment without exposing their unborn child to potentially harmful effects. This approach could broaden treatment options for pregnant patients and improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
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