Role of TNF-α in human female reproduction

TNF-α is a highly versatile cytokine, playing an important role in both apoptosis and inflammation, which is central to reproduction. It belongs to the Th1 type of cytokines. Thus, TNF-α is a proinflammatory cytokine and is involved during follicle development and ovulation, corpus luteum formation and regression and cyclic endometrium function. It has been postulated to be detrimental to the survival of the conceptus due to apoptosis of human primary villous trophoblast cells, leading to miscarriage. However, TNF-α may have a dual role in early pregnancy. Hormonally regulated uterine TNF-α in the mother is probably essential for trophoblast cell invasion, while increased production of TNF-α by maternal macrophages may facilitate labor. The current knowledge on the role of TNF-α and its receptors in the female reproduction is described in this review.