Open Access 01-12-2003 | Review
Tolerance of the fetus by the maternal immune system: role of inflammatory mediators at the feto-maternal interface
Published in: Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology | Issue 1/2003
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The adaptive immune system of placental mammals has evolved to tolerate the fetus. Rejection of the fetus by adaptive immune responses is therefore a rare event, with abortion being caused more frequently by inflammation in the placenta. This review will cover recent aspects of immune privilege and the innate immune system at the feto-maternal interface, citing examples of the role played by microbial infections in fetal demise.