Date: 07 May 2015
Pregnancy and the Immune System: General Overview and the Gastroenterological Perspective
Tomer Adar, Sorina Grisaru-Granovsky, Ami Ben Ya’acov, Eran Goldin, Ariella Bar-Gil Shitrit
Author Affiliations
1. Digestive Disease Institute, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Affiliated with the School of Medicine in the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 12 Bayit St., 91031, Jerusalem, Israel
2. Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Affiliated with the School of Medicine in the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
Abstract
Pregnancy represents a unique immune tolerant condition that cannot be attributed merely to generalized immunosuppression. A variety of mechanisms have been described, ranging from the non-self recognition, immunomodulation of specific inflammatory cell populations and a Th2-directed shift of the immune response, which are mediated by both localized and systemic mediators. Furthermore, an inflammatory response directed toward the conceptus is no longer considered an obligatory deleterious response; instead, it is considered an important factor that is necessary for normal growth and development. These immunomodulatory changes during pregnancy may also affect concurrent conditions and alter the course of inflammatory diseases. Herein, we review the main immunomodulatory changes that occur during pregnancy and their effect on coexisting inflammatory conditions, with a specific focus on gastrointestinal disorders.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences Digestive Diseases and Sciences Look