Immune status during postpartum, peri-implantation and early pregnancy in cattle: An updated view

VELÁZQUEZ, M.M.L.; PERALTA, M.B.; ANGELI, E.; STASSI, A.F.; GAREIS, N.C.; DURANTE, L.; CAINELLI, S.; SALVETTI, N.R.; REY, F.; ORTEGA, H.H.

ANIMAL REPRODUCTION SCIENCE

ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV

Año: 2019 vol. 206 p. 1 - 10

0378-4320

Throughout the estrous cycle the mammalian endometrium undergoes morphological andfunctional changes that are essential for the establishment of pregnancy and proper ovarian anduterine functions. Among these changes, the most important are alterations in both inter- andintracellular signalling molecules, many of which modulate immune processes. In the endometrialtissue there are local innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific/acquired) responsemechanisms which vary because of the endocrine status during the estrous cycle, pregnancy andpostpartum period. Endometrial cells have responses that support the immune system by producingpro-inflammatory factors such as cytokines, sensors, effector molecules and chemokines.This response is important during gestation, pregnancy, and fetal growth, as well as in preventinginfection, and immuno-rejection of the semi-allogeneic embryo. In dairy cows, both before andimmediately after calving, there are marked changes in the values for hormonal and metabolicvariables and the immune status is impaired. Thus, in several studies there has been assessmentof the physiological and/or abnormal maternal immune changes and possible effects on dairycow reproductive performance. The objective with this review is to summarize the novel informationabout the immune mechanisms involved during the postpartum period, subsequentperi-implantation period and pregnancy in dairy cows, and the possible effects on reproductiveperformance. This information provides for an enhanced understanding of the local and systemicimmune responses associated with the metabolic and hormonal status of dairy cows, and alterationsin the immune system of high producing cows and the possible effects on subsequentfertility.