Гормональная модуляция пластичности NK-клеток в период беременности
The article surveys scientific studies devoted to the effect of placental hormones produced during physiological pregnancy on natural killer (NK) cell plasticity accompanied by a change in their phenotype and functional activity. Highlighted is the primary role of estrogens, progesterone, human chorionic gonadotropin, leptin, ghrelin, and kisspeptin in the induction of NK cell plasticity processes. Placental hormones are able to transform peripheral blood NK lymphocytes into decidual NK (dNK) cells characterized by reduced cytotoxicity and expression of inhibitory receptors, as well as an increased production of the fetoprotective cytokine TGF-β. At the same time, hormones reduce the production of such abortogenic cytokines as IL-17A and IFN-γ. The action of these hormones is specific and implemented at concentrations characteristic of pregnancy. The hormones can realize their effects by recruiting other cells of the placental microenvironment. Moreover, the hormones support the phenomenon of plasticity, exerting similar effects on dNK cells, which may apparently enhance maternal immune tolerance toward the fetus and promote physiological fetal development during pregnancy.
