Immunology Of Reproduction

Reproductive Immunology: Basic Concepts gives a holistic insight into the understanding of the complex interactions between the maternal immune system and the fetal/placental unit necessary for the success of pregnancy. This interaction is critical for the support of the human fetal semiallograft and the protection against infections. The book covers various topics such as B cells, macrophages, T cells, discussion on fetal signals and their impact on maternal reproductive cells such as endometrial cells, mast cells, and the role of fetal Hofbauer cells, the immune regulatory role of glucorticoids, and many other novel topics within the field of reproductive immunology. Edited and written by experts in the field, this book introduces the up-to-date knowledge of the role of the immune system during pregnancy and provides the necessary background to understand pregnancy complications associated with alterations in the functioning of the immune system. The book provides a complete discussion on the immunological aspects of pregnancy and serves as a great tool for research scientists, students, reproductive immunologists and OBGYNs. Shows the detailed evaluation of the knowledge related to each immune cell type in the pregnant and not pregnant uterus Evaluates each immune cell type and its function during specific reproductive events Provides the biological background for understanding the clinical aspects that will be discussed in subsequent volumes in the series

Reproductive Immunology is a compilation of research articles presented during the VII International Congress of Reproductive Immunology which was held in New Delhi, India on 27-30 October 1998. The articles pertain to the following six major themes: Molecular and Immunological Aspects of Sperm-Egg Interaction Embryonic-Endometrial Cross-Talk Immunobiology of Pregnancy Autoantibodies and Infertility Immunocontraception Mucosal Immunology and Reproductive Tract Infections . The first section deals with our current understanding of various steps involved in fertilization. The functional significance of sperm surface mannosidase and glutathione S-transferases to bind zona pellucida is described. The role of zona pellucida glycoproteins in the binding of sperm, induction of acrosome reactions and avoidance of polyspermy is discussed. In the second section, the role of various cytokines, growth factors and immunomodulatory agents in implantation of embryos is described. In the field of reproductive immunology, one of the major issues is to explore the successful gestation of the histoincompatible fetus in the uterus of an immunologically competent mother. The Proceedings presents the issues of paternal antigens at the feto-maternal interface and shows that Th2-type of immunity is involved in normal successful conception. The role of membrane-bound and soluble HLA-G in protecting the fetus from the lytic activities of maternal uterine and peripheral blood natural killer (NK) cells is also presented. Nature's experiments suggest that antibodies against sperm-specific antigens are responsible for infertility in some women. The possibility that an immunogenetic background contributes to production of sperm-immobilizing antibodies in infertile women is discussed in the section on autoantibodies and infertility. The Proceedings presents the issue of Th1-type cytokines in inducing recurrent spontaneous abortions of unexplained etiology. The roles of β2-glycoprotein 1 (β2-GP1)-dependent anticardiolipin antibody, lupus anticoagulant, antiphospholipids, anti-thyroid antibody and anti-nuclear antibody in miscarriages are also described. The rising global human population, particularly in the developing countries, has driven the need for new and safer methods of contraception. Fertility regulation by vaccines is thus an interesting proposition. The section on contraceptive vaccines discusses the latest advances in this area and describes the current status of vaccines based on βhCG, sperm antigens, zona pellucida glycoproteins, and riboflavin carrier proteins. The issues of mucosal immunity and strategies for enhancing local genital immune responses to combat HIV infection is discussed. The role of inflammatory and related cytokines in chorioamnionitis is described. The contents of this Proceedings describes various facets of reproductive immunology which will help us to design strategies to combat genital infections and miscarriages caused by immunological etiology. Descriptions of the molecular basis of gamete recognition, implantation and survival of the allogenic fetus will help in designing strategies for overcoming infertility and also new contraceptive approaches. The Proceedings will be useful to researchers and clinicians involved in basic or applied research in the disciplines of reproductive biology, reproductive immunology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

(Sympos. Rome 8/92) Covers gene cloning of sperm membrane antigens role of cytokines/hormones in early pregnancy etc

Understanding immunology is increasingly important in obstetrics and gynecology. Written primarily to meet the needs of practicing obstetricians and gynecologists, this book explores the role of immunological processes in reproduction. It presents immunologic concepts and illustrates important points with examples familiar to the clinician. The boo

Based on the 1981 International Conference on Reproductive Immunology, this is a comprehensive survey of the rapidly-expanding field. The work of many distinguished contributors is presented in three parts: I. The Embryo as Antigen, II. The Placenta as Immunological Barrier, and III. Regulation of the Maternal Immune Response.

Immunological Aspects of Reproduction in Mammals contains papers presented during a symposium at the University of Nottingham Easter School. The scholarly presentations provide a wealth of information on the field of reproductive immunology and indicate just how complex this field is and how many questions still remain to be answered. The book begins with reviews of the current status of the complexities and uncertainties of the cellular basis of the immune response and the structure and function of antibodies. This is followed by separate chapters on the assessment and interpretation of the phenomena surrounding autoimmune and isoimmune reactions to spermatozoa; advances in defining the distribution and degree of exposure of major histocompatibility antigens; the reproductive immunology of the mouse, horse, and sheep; and fetal and neonatal immunity. Subsequent chapters present studies of immunization of several species with either the hypothalamic hormone LH-RH, pituitary gonadotrophins, or ovarian steroids; and studies directed towards efforts to enhance animal production by either active or passive immunization of female farm animals against steroid hormones. This book will be a valuable reference text for those already involved in the field and a stimulus for others to enter this complex and fascinating area of research.

The success of Assisted Reproductive Technology is critically dependent upon the use of well optimized protocols, based upon sound scientific reasoning, empirical observations and evidence of clinical efficacy. Recently, the treatment of infertility has experienced a revolution, with the routine adoption of increasingly specialized molecular biological techniques and advanced methods for the manipulation of gametes and embryos. This textbook – inspired by the postgraduate degree program at the University of Oxford – guides students through the multidisciplinary syllabus essential to ART laboratory practice, from basic culture techniques and micromanipulation to laboratory management and quality assurance, and from endocrinology to molecular biology and research methods. Written for all levels of IVF practitioners, reproductive biologists and technologists involved in human reproductive science, it can be used as a reference manual for all IVF labs and as a textbook by undergraduates, advanced students, scientists and professionals involved in gamete, embryo or stem cell biology.