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Chorionic gonadotropin can enhance innate immunity by stimulating macrophage function
Author(s) -
Wan Hui,
Versnel Marjan A.,
Cheung Wai yee,
Leenen Pieter J. M.,
Khan Nisar A.,
Benner Robbert,
Kiekens Rebecca C. M.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
journal of leukocyte biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.819
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1938-3673
pISSN - 0741-5400
DOI - 10.1189/jlb.0207092
Subject(s) - innate immune system , biology , human chorionic gonadotropin , immunology , immunity , acquired immune system , macrophage , phagocytosis , immune system , endocrinology , in vitro , hormone , biochemistry
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a placental glycoprotein, mainly secreted by trophoblasts during pregnancy. Its function in endocrine regulation has been well documented, but its immunological role is still largely unclear. For a successful pregnancy, an effective innate immunity is needed to protect the mother and fetus against infection, while maintaining tolerance against the paternal antigens of the fetus. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hCG on the function of macrophages (Mϕ), which are major players in the innate response. hCG treatment of IFN‐γ‐primed Mϕ resulted in increased production of NO, reactive oxygen species, IL‐6 and IL‐12p40, and enhanced phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. hCG treatment did not affect the induction of allogeneic T cell proliferation by IFN‐γ‐primed Mϕ. The observed effects were receptor‐mediated and involved the protein kinase A signaling pathway, as indicated by blocking studies using specific inhibitors. In vivo thioglycollate‐elicited Mϕ also exhibited increased phagocytic ability upon IFN‐γ activation and hCG treatment. In conclusion, hCG enhances Mϕ functions involved in innate immunity, while the capacity to stimulate allogeneic T cells remains unchanged.