The role of tumor necrosis factor-receptors in pregnancy with normal and adverse outcome

Abstract

TNF伪 receptors, TNF-R1 and TNF-R2, mediate the biological activities of the multifunctional cytokine, tumor necrosis factor alpha, TNF伪. These receptors have a central role in human pregnancy. Although each receptor induces distinct intracellular signals, they also have cooperative and overlapping effects. The membrane bound TNF-R1 carries out most of the pro-inflammatory activities of TNF伪, especially those that are rapid, while TNF-R2 is involved in the late long-term effects of this cytokine. The soluble forms of these receptors can bind to TNF伪, neutralizing its effects. In normal human pregnancy, TNF伪 receptors are present in the maternal circulation, placenta, amniotic fluid, and coelomic cavity. Changes inTNF伪 and its receptors are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage, preterm labor and pre-eclampsia. Advances in anti-TNF伪 therapy may have potential use in the management of complicated pregnancies.