Th17/Treg Cell Imbalance May Contribute to Spontaneous Preterm Labor.

Abstract

Spontaneous preterm labor (SPTL) is a major cause of neonatal mortality and severe complications. T cells play a crucial role in mediating inflammation and immune tolerance at the maternal-fetal interface. T helper 17 cells (Th17, pro-inflammatory) and regulatory T cells (Treg, anti-inflammatory) are two subsets of CD4⁺ T cells with opposite functions, and their balance is important for maintaining immune homeostasis. Since infection and inflammation represent prominent factors responsible for the pathogenesis of SPTL, Th17/Treg imbalance at the maternal-fetal interface may trigger proinflammatory responses, potentially leading to SPTL. In this review, evidence from both clinical cases of SPTL and animal models indicates the presence of Th17/Treg imbalance in both peripheral blood and the maternal-fetal interface. Additionally, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) have been involved in the pathogenesis of inflammation-induced SPTL, suggesting that Th17/Treg imbalance may have relevance to and be involved in the pathogenic process of SPTL. Moreover, the presence of Th17/Treg imbalance in risk factors for SPTL, such as autoimmune diseases and bacterial infections, further supports this connection indirectly. Although predictive models and interventional strategies related to SPTL have been explored, there is currently insufficient evidence to establish a direct causal relationship between Th17/Treg imbalance and the onset of SPTL.