Recent insight into autophagy and immunity at the maternal-fetal interface

Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway that supports metabolic adaptation and energy cycling. It is essential for cell homeostasis, differentiation, development, and survival. Recent studies have shown that autophagy could influence immune responses by regulating immune cell functions. Reciprocally, immune cells strongly influence autophagy. Immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface are thought to play essential roles in pregnancy. Here, we review the induction of autophagy at the maternal-fetal interface and its role in decidu- alization and placental development. Additionally, we emphasize the role of autophagy in the immune micro - environment at the maternal-fetal interface, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and immune tolerance molecules. It also suggests new research directions and prospects.

Automated summary

Autophagy is a crucial pathway for cellular homeostasis and development, and recent studies have revealed its impact on immune responses. In turn, immune cells strongly influence autophagy. In this review, we focus on the induction of autophagy at the maternal-fetal interface and its role in decidu- alization and placental development, as well as its involvement in the immune micro-environment, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and immune tolerance molecules. This review highlights new research directions and prospects.