Ovarian function and the immune system

Abstract

A hypothesis is presented on the interaction between the immune system and ovary in the regulation of the reproductive system and in the origin of some of its disorders. It has been suggested that the beginning, duration and age dependent failure of ovarian ovulatory function depends among other things on the adequate relationship between the immune system and approriate ovarian target structures. The cyclicity of ovarian function is considered to be primarily dependent on the induction of a specific cyclic immune response to the ovary. Similarly, the selection of a species-specific number of ovulating follicles during sexual maturity is thought to be ensured by immune mechanisms. This hypothesis, on the role of the immune system in regulation of ovulatory ovarian function respects the physiological effect of gonadotropins and steroids on the ovarian structures. The interaction between the ovary and the hypothalamus-pituitary system appears to be modulated by the relationship between the ovary and the immune system.