An introduction to the structure and function of inflammatory mediators for clinicians

As is apparent from a brief overview of some of the more important mediators involved in perinatal physiology and disease states, basic science research has provided many clinically relevant observations that, as discussed in other articles in this issue, have resulted in the discovery and development of clinically effective medications used daily in the care of the gravid mother and her fetus or neonate. In addition, an excellent base for the understanding of the mechanisms of the physiology of the maternal-fetal-placental unit has been established via extensive general and more focused research involving mediators.