The Immunology Of Human Reproduction

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

A comprehensive and cohesive account of reproductive immunology. Over 30 international experts review the key areas, including gamete immunobiology, the immunology of pregnancy and immunocontraception. The book deals primarily with immunological events

The authors explore the role of immunological processes in reproduction and present immunologic concepts and illustrate important points with examples familiar to the clinician.

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.

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

This book explains and reviews some of the significant events involved in human implantation and the establishment of the placenta in the uterus. This critical phase in human reproduction has proved to be an elusive and challenging area of research, not least because of the immunological and genetic interactions between the mother and fetus. The volume focuses on the most recent advances in our understanding of the basic mechanisms involved, with a particular emphasis on cell biology and immunology. This lucid volume will benefit all those studying and undertaking research in reproductive biology and immunology, perinatal pathology, fetal medicine and obstetrics.

This book offers comprehensive coverage of both basic and clinical aspects of immune reactions responsible for infertility. It has four sections focusing on Sperm antigens, Antisperm antibodies (ASAs), Clinical impact of ASAs, and Immune contraception, and include contributions from leading experts in these fields. This new edition of the book offers a comprehensive update that reflects the very significant advances in reproductive immunology that have been achieved over the past five years, especially related to the sperm proteome, sperm-egg binding/fusion proteins, gene knockout studies, and immunocontraception. Reproductive immunology continues to be a fast-growing discipline in which new knowledge is emerging almost every day. Immune Infertility is a model source of vital and reliable information on the latest scientific developments in the field. It will be of value for clinicians, scientists, students, residents, and fellows working in reproductive biology, obstetrics and gynecology, and urology.

Immunological Influence on Human Fertility covers the proceedings of the Workshop on Fertility in Human Reproduction, held at the Department of Biological Science, University of Newcastle, Australia on July 11 -13, 1977. The book focuses on topics on the immunological control of human and animal fertility. The selection first discusses the zona pellucida as a possible target in immunocontraception, immunological aspects of vasectomy, and the clinical significance of antibodies to spermatozoa. Topics include performance and significance of the SCMC-test, antibodies and fertility after vasovasostomy, vasectomy and the blood-testis barrier, cellular immune response, active and passive immunization, and tissue and species specificity. The book then tackles the nature of the barrier to autoimmunity in the excurrent ducts of the mammalian testis, immune activities of the male and female reproductive tracts, and isolation of spermatozoal antigens. The manuscript examines the immunological capacity of the male genital tract, clinical significance of antibodies to antigens of the reproductive tract, immunological aspects of vasectomy, and antigens of human trophoblasts. The text also takes a look at the immunological and anti-tumor effects of orchidectomy, immune infertility and approaches to treatment, natural insemination as an immune phenomenon, and modified seminal plasma antigens and subfertility. The selection is a valuable source of information for researchers wanting to study the immunological control of human and animal fertility.