Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Isolation of Leukocytes from the Murine Tissues at the Maternal-Fetal Interface
Published on: May 21, 2015
Immunogenetic aspects of preeclampsia
Abstract:
The etiology of preeclampsia (PE) is so far unknown; nevertheless both clinical and experimental findings suggest the possibility that immunogenetic factors operate in this disorder. In order to verify the role of immunogenetic factors in PE, a selected group of women (n = 26) affected with PE was chosen and HLA (human leucocytes A) frequency distribution, HLA antigens sharing between couples, homozygosity, incidence of HLA phenotypes and maternal antibody production were investigated. Neither significant differences in HLA frequencies nor homozygosity condition in preeclamptic and/or in the partners have been noted. HLA typing of the couples under study however demonstrates a very high antigen sharing between partners if compared with the sharing found in couples with normal reproductive performance. In 46% of PE women it was possible to demonstrate the presence of cytotoxic antibodies against surface structures of partner lymphocytes. The role of the MHC (major histocompatibility complex) in fetal survival and outcome is discussed.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Genomic Imprinting and Inheritance
The expression of some genes depends on which parent passed the gene to the offspring, through a phenomenon known as...
Transcytosis of IgG
IgG molecules from a mother undergo transcytosis starting around 13 weeks of gestation. The amount of IgG transferred and entering the fetal blood circulation increases with...
Teratogenicity
Antigens Involved in Adaptive Immunity
Complete Antigens
Complete antigens possess both immunogenicity and reactivity.
Development of Immunocompetence
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...

