Immunology at the maternal-fetal interface: Lessons for T cell tolerance and suppression

A. L. Mellor, D. H. Munn

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

261 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mammalian reproduction poses an immunological paradox because fetal alloantigens encoded by genes inherited from the father should provoke responses by maternal T cells leading to fetal loss. Current understanding of T cell immunobiology and the critical role of inflammatory processes during pregnancy is reviewed and discussed. Lessons derived from studies on the regulation of T cell responsiveness during mammalian gestation are considered in the wider context of T cell tolerance toward some microbial infections and tumors, avoidance of autoimmunity, and tissue allograft rejection.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)367-391
Number of pages25
JournalAnnual Review of Immunology
Volume18
DOIs
StatePublished - 2000

Keywords

  • Inflammation
  • Macrophages
  • Placenta
  • Pregnancy
  • T cells

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology

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