Serum Level of Interleukin-2 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha in Normal Pregnant Woman

Kim, D H; Lee, S G; Choi, G H; Lee, S K; Yang, H G; Lee, H H; Lee, I S

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
Because the fetus exists immunologically as a semiallograft, pregnancy loss may be a manifestation of host versus graft rejection in some cases. So we undertook a preliminary study to determine IL-2 and TNF-alpha levels in serum during normal pregnancy.
METHODS
Samples were taken for serum TNF-alpha and IL-2 enzyme linked immunosolvent assays [ELISA: R&D systems, Minneapolis, MN] from 50 pregnant women without any complications, 30 healthy non pregnant women and 5 women with at least two previous abortions between 6-14 weeks. 5 women had symptoms of an threatened abortions as evidenced by a vaginal bleeding and ultimately had a third abortion. Statistical analysis was used student t test.
RESULTS
Serum IL-2 levels were determined respectively 11.0 22.5pg/mL and 66.2 47.5pg/mL in control and normal pregnant women. The peak IL-2 level was reached as early as the first month and was stable during pregnancy. Serum TNF-alpha levels were determined respectively 11.6 28.1pg/mL and 11.4 21.8pg/mL in control and normal pregnant women. Serum TNF-alpha levels in women with unexplained recurrent abortion were 29-34pg/mL.
CONCLUSIONS
In normal pregnant women we found an increase in serum levels of IL-2 compared to the non-pregnant women. As regards serum levels of TNF-alpha, no differences could be observed between normal pregnant and non-pregnant women. In women with URA an increase in serum levels of TNF-alpha were found compared to the normal pregnant women.