Toll-like receptors and their role in the trophoblast.
The aim of this review is to discuss the role of Toll-like receptors at the maternal-fetal interface and the capacity of trophoblast cells to initiate innate immune responses towards infection. The maternal-fetal interface represents an immunologically unique site that must promote tolerance to the allogenic fetus, whilst maintaining host defense against a diverse array of possible pathogens. Clinical studies have shown a strong association between certain complications of pregnancy and intrauterine infections. Therefore, innate immune responses against microorganisms at the maternal-fetal interface may have a significant impact on the success of a pregnancy. There is growing evidence that trophoblast cells are able to recognize and respond to pathogens through the expression of Toll-like receptors, an important part of innate immunity. This review will discuss the role of Toll-like receptors at the maternal-fetal interface, the potential for trophoblast cells to function as components of the innate immune system and the impact TLR-mediated trophoblast responses may have on pregnancy outcome.
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. vikki.abrahams@yale.edu
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D000328:Adult; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000276:immunology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange / Q000276:immunology*; D008562:Membrane Glycoproteins / Q000276:immunology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000276:immunology*; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000276:immunology*; D015398:Signal Transduction; D051193:Toll-Like Receptors; D014327:Trophoblasts / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology
D008562:Membrane Glycoproteins; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D051193:Toll-Like Receptors