# Scientists find immune cells key to labour triggers

> New immune cell research could prevent premature birth by targeting labour triggers.
- Title: Scientists find immune cells key to labour triggers | Shortify
- Summary: New immune cell research could prevent premature birth by targeting labour triggers.
- Keywords: decidual macrophages, uterine natural killer cells, premature birth, labour triggers, placental insufficiency, imperial college london, borne, action medical research, MadeForMums
- Source: MadeForMums — https://madeformums.com/news/baby-news/could-this-breakthrough-help-prevent-premature-birth-scientists-uncover-new-clues-about-what-triggers-labour
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: decidual macrophages, uterine natural killer cells, premature birth, labour triggers, placental insufficiency, imperial college london, borne, action medical research
## Premature birth statistics
One in 13 UK babies born prematurely each year, equivalent to six babies per hour.
## Scientists uncover labour triggers
Imperial College London researchers found specialised immune cells may trigger labour by breaking waters around the baby.
## Decidual macrophages role
Decidual macrophages increase during labour and may start building up before labour begins.
## Dr Victoria Male's research
Dr Victoria Male says effective treatments for premature labour are urgently needed but labour triggers remain unclear.
## Uterine natural killer cells
Uterine natural killer (uNK1) cells contain unique granules that help placental implantation and development.
## Placental insufficiency risks
Placental problems can cause restricted growth and premature birth if not properly managed.
## Research partnership
Borne and Action Medical Research have invested £2.1 million in 11 projects since 2016 to tackle premature birth.
## Key takeaway

Scientists discovered decidual macrophages and uNK1 cells may trigger labour, offering potential treatments for premature birth.