The ovaries, the immune system, cytokines: physiology
Vinatier, D.; Lefebvre-Maunoury, C.; Bernardi, C.
Journal de Gynecologie Obstetrique et Biologie de la Reproduction 22(6): 581-591
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0368-2315 PMID: 8263286 Document Number: 419698
Sevellar cellular types are involved together in the cyclical functioning of the ovary. Regulating this co-operation between cells are intercellular systems of communication both autocrine and paracrine. The immune system that is present in the ovary seems to have an important role among the regulatory factors. Cytokines are the vectors of intercellular communication. The authors after studying the recent literature show how the immune system elements undergo cyclical variations corresponding to the ovulatory cycle. Reciprocal co-operation between the different cells is brought in to play at all stages of growth and of atrophy of the follicle. The knowledge of these networks for regulation make it possible to understand what is going on better and to work out a more appropriate treatment for certain pathologies such as premature menopause and unforeseen responses to certain forms of stimulation of ovulation.