Disruption of the innate immune system by mifepristone and lethal toxin of Clostridium sordellii

Abstract

The innate immune system is an immediate host response system for combating invading bacteria by initiating a protective local tissue inflammatory response. Pattern recognition molecules that are uniquely expressed in bacteria activate the host's Toll-like receptors to produce cytokines in the form of the pro-inflammatory chemokines and interleukins. If the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines is not properly controlled by cortisol, pro-inflammatory cytokines gain access to the systemic circulation and result in a systemic cytokine storm that is responsible for initiating septic shock and multiple organ dysfunctions. Cortisol-activated glucocorticoid receptors result in the synthesis and release of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10, which prevents the further synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines. During a mifepristone-induced abortion, the blockade of glucocorticoid receptors by mifepristone results in the disruption of the innate immune system. The combination of ischemic decidua, necro...