T-cell cytokines in pregnancy.
OBJECTIVE
Immunological mechanisms induced by T cells may play an important role in preimplantation embryo development, in implantation process and in the phenomenon of fetal allograft tolerance.


METHODS
We review existing data on the role of T cells in pregnancy.


RESULTS
The production of LIF, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10 and M-CSF by the decidual T cells may contribute to the maintenance of pregnancy. T cells are not only confined to the uterus. T cells are also present in cumulus oophorus and are able to produce LIF and IL-4.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings may provide an initial cue in favor of the possibility that different cytokines produced by T cells acting in concert are required to create a suitable microenvironment for the preimplantation embryo development and for the maintenance of pregnancy. T cells could work in parallel with other cells present in the decidua and cumulus suggesting a complex network of hormones, cytokines and cells.
Piccinni
Marie-Pierre
MP
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, Italy. mppiccinni@hotmail.com
D000818:Animals; D016207:Cytokines / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D003656:Decidua / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology; D010064:Embryo Implantation / Q000276:immunology; D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development / Q000276:immunology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007108:Immune Tolerance; D009865:Oocytes / Q000276:immunology; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000276:immunology*; D011255:Pregnancy Maintenance / Q000276:immunology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D018417:Th1 Cells / Q000276:immunology; D018418:Th2 Cells / Q000276:immunology
D016207:Cytokines