Immunosuppression in uterine transplantation

Uterine transplantation (UTx) is the only effective treatment for uterine infertility patients to become genetic mothers. After decades of research, the surgical methods of UTx are very developed. There are numerous factors that affect the results of UTx, such as selection of the donor uterus before transplantation, immunosuppressive therapy post-transplantation, rejection monitoring, and immune tolerance. Studies have shown that immune rejection is a crucial factor affecting the survival rate after organ transplantation. Unlike liver or kidney transplantation, the aim of UTx is to obtain a functional uterus that is able to support successful pregnancy and birth of a healthy fetus. Because of the unique purpose of UTx, its immunosuppressive program is relatively specialized. Some immunosuppressive agents can cause perinatal complications, and inducing immune tolerance is necessary to resolve these side effects. Further understanding of the immune mechanism of UTx and the continuous development of new immunosuppressive agents, combined with the application of assisted reproductive technology, will be more conducive to the realization of UTx to breed offspring.