Regulatory T Cells Protecting the Embryo
How Failure of Regulatory T Cell Functioning Causes Miscarriage
One of the ways in which immune tolerance is generated for an embryo is
by the production of a special white blood cell called a regulatory T
cell - also known as a T Regulator Cell (Treg). These begin to increase
in number during the second half of the menstrual cycle in preparation
for an expected pregnancy. Sperm entering the body also plays a part in
the further development of these cells. The regulatory T cells go to the
uterine lining and start to deactivate cells that would normally attack
an invading embryo. They deactivate cells that would attack directly as
well as those that would produce chemicals which cause inflammation and
thus invite other immune cells to attack the area. Another issue they
address it that of cells which "report" a foreign presence and
thus cause the production of more cells to attack that tissue.
In these ways, regulatory T cells prevent the immune system from causing
a rejection of the embryo. These cells also support these efforts by releasing
chemicals that induce the formation of more regulatory T cells to assist
with these protective measures. They also release an anti-inflammatory
chemical to prevent inflammation from prompting an attack by the immune
system. This same chemical also leads to the production of protective
antibodies by the mother's B cells that further shield the embryo
from the mother's immune system. As the body is designed to support
pregnancies, it is when these mechanisms are not functioning correctly that
multiple miscarriages can result.
You Options to Prevent Miscarriage: Comprehensive Treatment
If you have been suffering recurrent miscarriages, Dr. Braverman can conduct
a thorough examination and devise a
treatment program tailored specifically to you. Our entire team has been part of
the practice for at least 20 years and is dedicated to supporting you
through this trying time. So don't wait! Contact Braverman IVF &
Reproductive Immunology to see how we can help you successfully complete
pregnancy.
If you have experienced pregnancy losses,
contact Dr. Braverman for skilled treatment.