Role of some cytokines on reproduction

Background

The etiology of female reproductive failure may be very complex owing to a neuro-endocrine-immune association. Dysregulated immunity has been implicated in reproductive failure. Lower TH1 cytokines is supportive for physiological pregnancy.

Aim of the study

To measure serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-6) in reproductive failure women.

Patients and methods

A cross- sectional study was carried out in Kammal El-Sammrari Hospital from 2008 to 2010. Forty-five women with reproductive failure participated in the study. Serum levels of cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma) were done by Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) and compared with age, body mass index and ethnicity matched thirty fertile women.

Results

There is a significant increase in IL-10 (18.09) (p = 0.002) and IFN-γ (49.62) (p = 0.0001) in women with reproductive failure. TNF-α and IL-6 showed no significance different with fertile group.

Conclusions

There is increase in IL-10 and IFN-γ in women with reproductive failure.