This book summarizes current concepts relating to molecular mechanisms underlying the ability of estrogen and progesterone to regulate cellular events in hormone-sensitive tissues during reproduction. Special attention is given to the role of hormonally-regulated cytokines and growth factors in successful mammalian pregnancy. Current understanding of maternal/fetal immune responses is integrated into this fundamental reproductive physiology background. The presentation is designed as a thought-provoking, speculative review of one frontier in reproductive physiology.
