Mitochondria play a fundamental role in human reproduction by supplying the energy required for key early reproductive processes. As mitochondrial Deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA) is maternally inherited, pathogenic mutations can lead to multisystem disorders that are transmitted to offspring. Mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) has emerged as a promising assisted reproductive approach to prevent the transmission of pathogenic mtDNA by replacing defective mitochondria with healthy donor mitochondria. There have been recent reports of successful MRT in humans. However, MRT remains a relatively new procedure and needs further experiments to establish its long-term safety and effectiveness. Overall, mitochondrial replacement therapy holds significant promise in helping families build healthier futures. This review explores the evolution of mitochondrial DNA modification in reproductive cells and addresses the associated ethical considerations, including acceptable clinical indications, reproductive choices, and long-term considerations for affected children.

Preeclampsia (PE) is the onset of hypertension in pregnancy with systemic involvement; PE poses significant risks of cerebral complications, including eclampsia and long-term cognitive impairment. This review explores the potential of neurological biomarkers—neurofilament light chain (NfL), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), S100 Calcium Binding Protein B (S100B), and tau—as indicators of cerebral injury in PE. A literature search identified studies comparing biomarker levels in preeclamptic and healthy pregnancies. Findings reveal elevated plasma levels of NfL, NSE, S100B, and Tau in PE, with NfL showing the strongest association with blood–brain barrier dysfunction, cognitive symptoms, and disease severity. Variations between plasma and cerebrospinal fluid levels suggest impaired BBB integrity rather than increased central nervous system production. Despite promising correlations, limitations include small sample sizes, lack of standardized thresholds, and limited CSF data. While NfL emerges as a particularly promising marker for risk stratification, further research is needed to validate the clinical utility of these biomarkers in routine PE management.

Background/Objectives: Vaccination is the most important way to prevent infection-related morbidity and mortality, but delays in the acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services can adversely affect health outcomes. Methods: This is a cross-sectional congruent parallel mixed-methods study exploring vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes and practices and factors associated with vaccine acceptance or hesitancy. A validated questionnaire was used to collect responses from pregnant women. Results: A total of 326 women participated in the study. The majority of women were over 30 years old, educated, had higher incomes, and had been pregnant before. Of the participants, 94.7% had adequate knowledge of vaccine services, 64% relied on more than one source of information, and the majority (89%) relied on information from doctors. In total, 93.5% held a positive attitude towards vaccination, and the majority accepted it. A total of 159 (48.7%) self-reported a moderate to strong vaccine hesitancy (VH). Qualitative analysis showed that those who had strong VH expressed mistrust, social media information, safety concerns regarding newer vaccines, and religious beliefs as influencing factors. Factors significantly affecting VH were education, household income, adequate knowledge, and appropriate attitude. Other factors were knowledge gaps, perceived necessity, distrust, and belief in natural immunity. Hesitancy positively correlated with being a homemaker and being parous, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: This study reveals a population with generally favorable vaccine attitudes and high vaccination intentions, alongside significant underlying hesitancy. Knowledge gaps exist, and healthcare professionals remain the most trusted information source. Addressing the identified barriers through evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and community-engaged strategies will be essential for maintaining high vaccination coverage and preventing future outbreaks.