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The Role of Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH) on Implantation and Immunotolerance of the Fetus

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Immunology of Pregnancy

Part of the book series: Medical Intelligence Unit ((MIUN))

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Abstract

The hypothalamic neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), as well as its receptors, have been identified in several reproductive organs, including the endometrial glands, the decidualized endometrial stroma and the placental trophoblast, synctiotrophoblast and decidua.19 “Reproductive” CRH is a form of “tissue” CRH (CRH found in peripheral tissues), analogous to the “immune” CRH detected in peripheral inflammatory sites.10 “Immune” CRH possesses potent proinflammatory properties, influencing both innate and acquired immune processes. Intrauterine CRH may participate in local immune phenomena associated with embryo implantation (Table 1).

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Kalantaridou, S.N., Makrigiannakis, A., Zoumakis, E., Chrousos, G.P. (2006). The Role of Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH) on Implantation and Immunotolerance of the Fetus. In: Mor, G. (eds) Immunology of Pregnancy. Medical Intelligence Unit. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/0-387-34944-8_9

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