Investigation of the Relationship Between IL-17, IL-27, IL-2 Blood Levels in Spontaneous Abortion and Healthy Pregnant Women.

BACKGROUND

Cytokines are essential for regulating immune cell activity during pregnancy. Research shows that CD4+ T-cells exhibit specific cytokine secretion patterns, resulting in polarized immune responses. This study aims to compare the gene expression levels of Th1, Th2, and Th17 cytokines in women with normal pregnancies versus those with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA).

METHODS

In this case-control study, 20 patients with RSA within 24 h of their last abortion were compared to 20 pregnant women with no history of abortion (Control Group). Cytokine levels of IL-2, IL-17, and IL-27 were quantified using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

Overall cytokine levels were similar between the groups, but the cytokine levels in both groups were generally similar. However, higher IL-17 and IL-2 levels were observed in the healthy pregnancy group ( = 0.006 and = 0.001, respectively). Elevated IL-17 and IL-27 levels were observed in healthy pregnancies, whereas lower levels were seen shortly after a miscarriage. IL-27 levels were significantly higher in women with recurrent abortions compared to those with healthy pregnancies ( < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated IL-2 levels may be a risk factor for RSA. Consistent with recent studies, our findings emphasize the role of IL-17 and IL-27 as crucial regulatory cytokines for maintaining a successful pregnancy.