The Role of Placenta-Derived Exosomes in Immune Regulation during Pregnancy

doi:10.12280/gjfckx.20230709

Abstract

Abstract:

The placenta plays a critical role in maintaining immune tolerance at the maternal-fetal interface. Recent research has shown that syncytiotrophoblast cells of the placenta continuously release placenta-derived exosomes (Pd-Exos) into the maternal bloodstream. These Pd-Exos and their contents not only participate in pregnancy processes such as embryogenesis and implantation, but also contribute to immune regulation during pregnancy. They inhibit natural killer cell cytotoxicity, suppress T-cell activation, and promote the differentiation and polarization of macrophages during pregnancy. Precise regulation of the mechanisms is crucial for successful pregnancy and achieving favorable maternal and fetal health outcomes. Disruption of immune tolerance can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preterm birth. In this review, we summarized the immunomodulatory functions of Pd-Exos during normal physiological pregnancy and their involvement in pregnancy-related complications due to maternal-fetal immune dysregulation.

Key words: Placenta-derived exosomes, Syncytiotrophoblast, Immune tolerance, Pregnancy complications, Pregnancy outcome

ZHANG Yong-qing, CHEN Dan-qing. The Role of Placenta-Derived Exosomes in Immune Regulation during Pregnancy[J]. Journal of International Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2024, 51(1): 15-20.

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