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Published on: December 5, 2015
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CXCL12 in normal and pathological pregnancies: A review
Deng Ao1, Da-Jin Li1,2, Ming-Qing Li1,2,3
1Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Summary
The CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis is crucial for fetal survival during pregnancy, impacting placental development and maternal-fetal interactions. This signaling pathway also plays a role in pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Fetal survival during pregnancy is paradoxical, involving complex maternal-fetal interactions.
- The chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptors CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and 7 are present in placental cells.
- This axis is implicated in placental development and pregnancy disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biological properties and signaling roles of the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis.
- To understand its function in normal and pathological pregnancy.
- To highlight its therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis in pregnancy.
- Analysis of signaling pathways involved in placentation and fetal outcome.
- Examination of the axis's role in pregnancy-associated diseases.
Main Results:
- The CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis influences trophoblast invasion and placental angiogenesis.
- It mediates critical crosstalk at the maternal-fetal interface.
- Dysregulation of this axis is linked to recurrent spontaneous abortion, pre-eclampsia, and preterm labor.
Conclusions:
- The CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis is vital for successful placentation and fetal development.
- Understanding its mechanisms in pregnancy complications can lead to new therapeutic strategies.
- Targeting this axis may offer novel treatments for pregnancy disorders.
