Complemento a citochine nella riproduzione umana

Immunological factors are considered of growing importance in human reproductive function. Regulation of complement and of cytokines in reproduction is unique inasmuch as reproductive tissues represent the only condition where allogeneic interactions occur naturally. Different reproductive tract fluids show the presence of functionally active complement or complement factors involved in many biological functions. On the other hand allogeneic extraembryonic membranes and semen possess several regulators of complement activation that allow them to escape complement damage. Many cytokines are considered critical in reproductive function. They affect blastocyst attachment, trophoblast outgrowth, fetal resorption, hormone production. Furthermore every cytokine may play a specific role during the ovarian cycle associated hormonal changes and, in turn, in reproductive performance. Both cytokines and complement participate in the inflammatory processes involved in ovulation.