Vascular IL-10: a protective role in preeclampsia

Abstract

IL-10 is a pregnancy compatible cytokine that plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory milieu at the maternal-fetal interface. Recent evidence now suggests that IL-10 is a potent vascular cytokine that can blunt hypertension and inflammation-mediated vascular dysfunction. Thus, a re-evaluation of IL-10 as a cytokine supporting endovascular interactions and angiogenesis as well as blunting hypoxic-injury and preeclampsia-like features is warranted. In this review, we highlight these novel functions of IL-10 and propose that its immune-modulating and vascular functions are mutually inclusive, particularly in the context of normal gestation.

Fig. 1. Immune-Vascular Interactions of IL-10: Implications in Preeclampsia

Interleukin (IL)-10 modulates vascular activity and endovascular interactions at the maternal-fetal interface in addition to its known anti-inflammatory and immune-regulatory functions. This ensures normal renal physiology and blood pressure during pregnancy. Hypoxia is known to down regulate IL-10 expression (Bowen et al., 2005). In addition, infection and ensuing inflammation may adversely influence cytokine balance and normal physiological functions of IL-10 predisposing onset of preeclampsia.