Modulación de las células T regulatorias durante el ciclo menstrual: su implicancia en reproducción humana

ARRUVITO L; SANZ M; A. C. FLORES; N. PALADINO; FAINBOIM L

Mar del Plata, Argentina

Congreso; LI Reunión Científica de SAIC- LIV Reunión Científica de SAI; 2006

Regulatory T cells (Treg) influence the severity of infectious and autoimmune diseases. Because the latest have a higher incidence in women, we investigate whether     sexual hormones can modulate Treg numbers during the menstrual cycle. Treg are expanded at the late follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, tightly associated with serum estrogens levels. This increased response, is followed by a dramatic fall in Treg numbers at the luteal phase. Women suffering from recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA) show similar numbers of Treg at both phases of the menstrual cycle. RSA also show a diminished suppressor capacity, and in comparison with fertile women require higher Treg numbers to exert a similar suppressor effect. These results support the concept that alterations in Treg might contribute to the reproductive failure observed in RSA. Additionally, suggests the need of taking into account the phase of menstrual cycle when Treg numbers are investigated within a clinical setting.