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Regulatory T cells (Tregs) with stable FOXP3 expression are characterized by a specific demethylated region in the FOXP3 gene (Treg‐specific demethylated region, TSDR). The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of prenatal factors on cord blood Treg numbers, as detected by changes in the TSDR demethylation, and the subsequent risk for allergic diseases.

Analyses were performed within the LINA study in blood samples from pregnant women (34th gestational week) and in cord blood (n = 346 mother–child pairs). Treg numbers were detected via DNA demethylation in the FOXP3 TSDR. At age 1, total and specific IgE was measured in children's blood. In addition, maternal cytokine production (Th1/Th2/Th17) was analysed. Exposure and disease outcomes were assessed by questionnaires.

Boys had lower Treg numbers compared with girls (P < 0.001). Parental atopy …