Cytokines in the ovary: pathophysiology and potential for pharmacological intervention

Abstract

The ovary and testis are sites for interaction between the endocrine and immune system via leukocytes and their secreted products, the cytokines. There are convincing data available to show that the gonads are sites of cytokine action and production. In the ovary, cytokines and leukocytes are intimately involved in follicular development, ovulation, and luteal function. A variety of clinical situations may be due to cytokine action in the gonads, and therapeutic manipulation of the immune system may affect reproductive function.