Autoimmunity, regulatory T cells, and pregnancy: Maintaining the balance

This chapter deals with the contribution of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in maintaining the immunological balance during pregnancy. We discuss the discovery of Treg cells and their role in a healthy pregnancy, in rodents and humans. We describe the relationship between obstetrical complications such as preeclampsia and Tregs function. We emphasize the relationship between pregnancy and autoimmune diseases and discuss the critical role that Tregs play in the progress of the autoimmune disease during pregnancy.