The effect of reproductive hormones on basic functions of human neutrophils

The modulating effect of estradiol, progesteron and chorionic gonadotropin (CG) on phagocyte and oxidative activity in peripheral blood neutrophils of nonpregnant women have been studied. The rise of neutrophil phagocyte activity in the presence of high (100 Ul/ml) dose of CG and a combination of steroids irrespective of the dose was found. The luminol-dependent chemiluminescence of the cells is shown to be increased by a combination of steroids in high doses. In general, the reproductive hormones are able to increase neutrophil phagocytosis and raise the oxidative potential of intact and active neutrophils. According to extrapolation of this stimulatory effect on the third trimester of pregnancy we may suppose tiiat basic reproductive hormones prepare nonspecific resistance ceils to activation of delivery.