Abstract
Problem: To determine what we have learned about fetomaternal immune interactions, specifically focusing on fetal trophoblast antigens, maternal immune cells, and cytokines.
Methods: Review of previously published information together with current results.
Results and Conclusions: A species-compatible trophoblast is essential for successful mammalian pregnancy, and within this context, trophoblast serves an essential barrier function separating the fetal from maternal circulation. Trophoblast produces cytokines, elicits cytokine responses from maternal lymphomyeloid cells, and responds to cytokines produced by these cells so as to generate a Th2/3 environment favorable to trophoblast and fetal growth and viability. Although a role of Th2/3 cytokines in preventing an attack on trophoblast by activated NK cells has been emphasized in the past, regulation of blood clotting and thrombin-induced inflammation seems to represent a key process determining pregnancy success. Paternal antigens expressed on trophoblast seem to elicit immune responses that can either help of harm a pregnancy, but recognition occurs by cells of the ‘innate’ immune system (NK cells, γδT cells, and T-NK cells) rather than by conventional αβT cells. However, αβT cell responses can likely prevent or promote pregnancy success via production of cytokines that are normally arising from cells of the innate system. Reproduction is the foundation for evolution, and immunoselective processes involving trophoblast antigens seems to play an important role in this process. From what we have recently learned, it seems that we could also exploit trophoblast antigens that stimulate Thl-type responses as a method for creating reversible infertility needed to prevent overpopulation.
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© 1999 Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht
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Clark, D.A. (1999). From Trophoblast Antigens and Cells to Cytokines: Visions and realities. In: Gupta, S.K. (eds) Reproductive Immunology. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-4197-0_12
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-4197-0_12
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