HAKAN OZAN
Advances in Molecular Medicine - 2007;3(4):165-170
Pregnancy is a unique situation in which a fetus with paternal alloantigens can survive in a maternal environment in a state of chronic inflammation due to placentation with trophoblastic invasion and remodeling of spiral arteries. Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) plays a role in complement activation through the lectin pathway, complement-independent opsonophagocytosis, modulation of inflammation, recognition of altered self structures, removal of immune complexes, and apoptotic cell clearance. There are insufficient and conflicting data about the association between MBL and gestational complications such as miscarriage, preterm delivery, and preeclampsia. Though most reports specify the genetic expression or concentration of MBL during pregnancy, there are speculations rather than proofs regarding its role in immunopathogenesis.
