[Immunologic function of the placenta and endothelium in virus infection; non-specific immunity].

A placenta constitutes a specific immune system that can protect a fetus against viral infections. We examined TNF, IFN and IL-6 production in organ cultures of human placenta and amniotic membrane. VSV replication and the cytokine production (TNF, IFN, IL-6) by human umbilical cord vein organ cultures and isolated endothelial cells were compared. We suggest that the local production of cytokines is responsible for the antiviral activity of placenta and endothelium.