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Updated: Feb 8, 2026

Flow Cytometry-based Assay for the Monitoring of NK Cell Functions
Published on: October 30, 2016
[The Influence of Chorionic Gonadotropin and Estriol on NK Cells Phenotype and Functional Activity.]
Abstract:
The influence of chorionic gonadotropin (CG) and estriol (E3) at concentrations typical of pregnancy on the expression of phenotypic markers and cytokine production by separated NK cells were studied. It is found that these hormones increase the percentage of CD56brightL-selectin+ NK-cells, but also stimulate the expression of the inhibitory molecule NKG2A in the lymphocytes. In addition, E3 and CG stimulate the production of TGF-B, inhibiting the secretion of all other cytokines by separated NK cells. In general, these hor- mones contribute to the formation of the phenotype and cytokine spectrum characteristic of the regulatory NK3 subpopulation of NK cells during pregnancy.
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