engleski

Physiological role(s) of perforin/FasL pathways at the maternal-fetal interface

Decidua of pregnancy is heavily infiltrated with maternal immunocompetent cells, primarily CD3-CD56brightCD16-NK cells (dNK) and T lymphocytes, which are equiped with strong cytolytic potential (Perforin, Granzymes, FasL). The pregnant uterus harbours the highest level of perforin under any physiological or pathological condition, which rises the question of its biological significance at the interface. FasL the member of TNF superfamily is known to fulfill important homeostatic functions. FasL deficient as well as Perforin deficient mice breed normally. However female mice with the absence of both acute cytolytic pathways (cytotoxic double deficiency) are infertile. The results of our investigations are showing that dNK cells, isolated from the suspension of decidual mononuclear cells, efficiently lyse NK sensitive K-562 cells and NK resistant P815 and P815 Fas transfected cells. Concamycin A and anti FasL antibody significantly down regulate cytolytic activity of cultured dNK cells against P815 targets. This indicates that dNK cells, if activated in vivo, could use P and FasL cytotoxicity against intracellularly parasitized and transformed cells or trophoblast. Accordingly, cytolytic cells at the interface might perform an immune surveillance function protecting both mother and fetus.

perforin; dNK cells; FasL; fetus

DOI: 10.1111/j.8755-8920.2005.00280.x