Physiological role of IL-15 and IL-18 at the maternal-fetal interface

Chem Immunol Allergy. 2005:89:10-25. doi: 10.1159/000087906.

Abstract

We review recent studies of two cytokines IL-15 and IL-18, showing that they are the critical cytokines controlling uterine NK cell cytokine production and cytolytic potential. Further, IL-15 has been implicated in differentiation and proliferation of uterine NK cells, while IL-18 enhanced innate immunity and both Th1- and Th2-driven immune responses depending on the cytokine milieu. We addressed the possible role of these two cytokines in induction of the IFN-gamma production as a key molecule in vascular remodeling during early pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytokines / biosynthesis
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-15 / metabolism*
  • Interleukin-18 / metabolism*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology
  • Maternal-Fetal Exchange / immunology*
  • Models, Immunological
  • Pregnancy
  • Uterus / immunology

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Interleukin-15
  • Interleukin-18