Changes in T, B, and NK Lymphocyte Subsets During and After Normal Pregnancy

Abstract

These data indicate that 1) early increases of suppressor T cells and NK+3 cells during pregnancy may be related to the mechanism to accept or reject the fetus in early pregnancy, respectively; 2) late decreases of helper T cells and NK+3 cells may be related to the maintenance of pregnancy: 3) postpartum increases of helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, TCR alpha beta-negative T cells (T gamma delta cells), and CD5+ B cells may be related to the postpartum aggravation of autoimmune diseases; and 4) the immunological effects of pregnancy remains until about 1 year after delivery.