The LINA cohort: Cord blood eosinophil/basophil progenitors predict respiratory outcomes in early infancy

•Predictive value of eosinophil/basophil (Eo/B) progenitor numbers at birth was studied.•Higher numbers of cord blood Eo/B progenitor cells predict respiratory outcomes later in life.•Tobacco smoke related benzene exposure supports the activation of these progenitors.•A Th2 immune status at birth further contributes to higher cord blood Eo/B numbers.

RationaleCord blood eosinophil/basophil progenitor cells (Eo/B) of high risk infants have been shown to predict respiratory illnesses in infancy. Here we investigated this association in a population-based cohort. Furthermore, we analysed whether newborns Th1/Th2 balance and prenatal environmental exposure impact Eo/B recruitment.MethodsIn a sub-cohort of the LINA study cord blood mononuclear cells were used for methylcellulose assays to assess Eo/B differentiation. Questionnaires were recorded during pregnancy and annually thereafter. Volatile organic compounds were measured during pregnancy and cord blood cytokines after ex vivo stimulation.ResultsCord blood IL-4 and IL-13 positively correlated with Eo/B. Tobacco smoke related benzene was also positively associated with Eo/B. Enhanced Eo/B numbers increased the risk for wheezing within the first 24 months.ConclusionsThe association between cord blood Eo/B and respiratory illnesses is not restricted to high-risk children. Prenatal environmental exposure and a Th2 milieu at birth contribute to Eo/B recruitment.