ABSTRACT
Embryo implantation and development are critically dependent upon the regulation of angiogenesis and adequate immunologic acceptance. These local angiogenesis and vascular permeability are regulated by the interaction between fetal trophoblast, uterine decidua, and endothelial cells through the key mediator, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). PROBLEM: The mechanism through which VEGF regulation occurs at the feto-maternal interface is poorly understood. The Th1 type cytokines are known to be harmful to the successful maintenance of early pregnancy at the feto-maternal interface. OBJECTIVE: To clarify whether the Th1 type cytokines could be involved in the regulation of VEGF secretion at the feto-maternal interface. Method of Study : we investigated the effects of Th1 type cytokines on VEGF secretion in human first trimester trophoblast cell-line by using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR)and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: The trophoblast cells expressed VEGF constitutively and the main isoforms were VEGF121 and VEGF165. When cultured in the presence of IFN-gamma or IL-2, VEGF secretion was most significantly increased by IFN-gamma treatment but not affected by IL-2 treatment. The level of intracellular VEGF was also increased by IFN-gamma treatment. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that IFN-gamma, despite of harmful Th1 type cytokine to the maint enance of early pregnancy, may regulate the production of VEGF in early gestational trophoblasts.