MDSCs in pregnancy and pregnancy-related complications: an update†

Abstract

Maternal-fetal immune tolerance is a process that involves complex interactions of the immune system, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells have emerged as one of the novel immunomodulator in the maintenance of maternal-fetal immune tolerance. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells are myeloid progenitor cells with immunosuppressive activities on both innate and adaptive cells through various mechanisms. Emerging evidence demonstrates the accumulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells during healthy pregnancy to establish maternal-fetal immune tolerance, placentation, and fetal-growth process. By contrast, the absence or decreased myeloid-derived suppressor cells in pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, preterm birth, stillbirth, and recurrent spontaneous abortion have been reported. Here, we have summarized the origin, mechanisms, and functions of myeloid-derived suppressor cells during pregnancy along with the recent advancements in this dynamic field. We also shed light on the immunomodulatory activity of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, which can be a foundation for potential therapeutic manipulation in immunological pregnancy complications.

Keywords: feto-maternal cross-talk; immunosuppression; maternal–fetal interface; myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC); pregnancy complications.