Ovarian cancer-derived glycodelin impairs in vitro dendritic cell maturation.

Local immunosuppressive mechanisms shape the tumor microenvironment and contribute to carcinogenesis. In ovarian cancer such mechanisms have been shown to influence survival. Dendritic cells (DCs) are central immunity regulators and induce potent cytotoxic T-cell responses as well as peripheral tolerance depending on modulatory stimuli.

Glycodelin A induces a tolerogenic phenotype in monocyte-derived dendritic cells in vitro.

Problem: Successful mammalian pregnancy requires a delicate immunological balance at the feto-maternal interface that allows the semi-allogeneic fetus to grow, while protecting mother and child from environmental pathogens. As in other mucosal tissues, antigen-recognition and -handling by professional antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells (DC) determine the course of the subsequent immune response. DC at the feto-maternal interface help shape this immunological equilibrium.