Immunomodulating effects of alpha-fetoprotein

Abstract

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), synthesized by embryonic tissues, enters the bloodstream of a mother performing both transport and immunomodulating functions. The aim of the work is to assess the effect of AFP on the differentiation of regulatory (Treg and Th17) and effector (TEM, TEMRA) subpopulations in vitro. For this, isolated cultures of T-helper cells were incubated with physiological concentrations of the native AFP preparation (10, 50, 100 IU/ml). In our experimental model, no apparent effects of AFP on Treg/Th17 differentiation were revealed. However, it was found out that AFP impeded the conversion of naive helper T cells into TEM and TEMRA, while simultaneously reducing the total production of IL-4 and IFN-y cytokines by these cells. The next task is to study the role of AFP in the regulation of differentiation and functions of myeloid suppressor cells (MDSC). Understanding these processes will expand our vision of the role of AFP in the formation of fetomaternal tolerance, as well as to formulate a new concept of its action as a pharmacological drug.