Human Endometrium: An Active Site of Cytokine Production and Action*

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Abstract
I. Introduction Complex interactions of a network of cells comprised of epithelial, stromal, endothelial, and lymphoid cells in human endometrium are displayed as orchestrated phases of proliferation, differentiation, and menstrual shedding. It is clear that these dynamic cell-to-cell interactions require a well developed array of intercellular communication signals. Many of the changes that occur in human endometrium are reminiscent of those associated with the inflammatory and reparative processes. Thus, it is not surprising that emerging evidence suggests the involvement of proinflammatory cytokines in endometrial reactions. Expression of the receptors for cytokines, production of these factors by endometrial cells, and regulation of endometrial functions by these factors all indicate the potential of cytokines to serve at autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine levels in human endometrium. In the succeeding sections, the emerging evidence for the role of cytokines in human endometrium is presented. In this context, the complex network of cells able to release cytokines in human endometrium is addressed first. From the long list of cytokines, those cytokines whose potential participations in endometrial functions have been suggested are reviewed.

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