Natural killer cell profiling in women with recurrent pregnancy loss

Natural Killer (NK) cells are cells of our immune system that protect us against all kinds of pathogens. However, during pregnancy, these cells seem to have an important function to protect the embryo so that it can develop properly. In order to gain more insight into the characteristics of NK cells in women with recurrent pregnancy loss, this dissertation focused on NK cell receptor profiles. First of all, a literature search was done to see which receptors have been studied before in women with recurrent pregnancy loss and which receptors have not yet, so that an overview could be created to see which receptors are still underexposed. Next, NK cell receptor profiles were examined in blood and menstrual blood from healthy women to see whether NK cells have different characteristics in the womb than in the bloodstream. In addition, NK cell receptor profiles were compared between women with recurrent pregnancy loss and women with a previous healthy pregnancy and it was also examined whether there was a genetic difference in one specific receptor between these women. Furthermore, other systems that interact with NK cells, such as the circulatory system and the metabolic system of these women, were also investigated. Finally, a literature review was conducted to see whether immunotherapy had an effect on the success of life birth in women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss and immunological problems. These therapies are sometimes already used, but it is still insufficiently known whether and, if so, for whom this treatment works. Because there are only a few studies on this topic, it is too early to draw firm conclusions. In summary, all the results of this thesis show that it is important to increase awareness and understanding of immunological problems in women with recurrent miscarriages.