TH17- and IL-17- mediated autoantibodies and placental oxidative stress play a role in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia

Minerva Ginecol. 2014 Jun;66(3):243-9.

Abstract

Pre-eclampsia is a multisystem disorder of pregnancy that affects 5-8% of pregnancies. The pathophysiologic mechanisms that lead to the development of pre-eclampsia are poorly understood. Higher than normal levels of circulating TH17 is observed in preeclamptic women compared to women with normal pregnancy. TH17 cells are a subset of CD4+ T helper cells that are characterized by their secretion of IL-17. Recent studies suggest a role for TH17 cells and IL-17 in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia. In this review, we will discuss the known function of TH17 cells and IL-17 in immunity and vascular function. We will then review the role of IL-17 and TH17 cells in normal pregnancy and their association with pre-eclampsia, followed by a discussion of the literature to examine a potential role for IL-17 and TH17 cells in mediating pathophysiology in pre-eclampsia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoantibodies / immunology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-17 / immunology
  • Oxidative Stress*
  • Placenta / metabolism*
  • Pre-Eclampsia / immunology
  • Pre-Eclampsia / physiopathology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Th17 Cells / immunology

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Interleukin-17