The innate reproductive immunity system safeguards reproductive tracts from pathogens through protection of delicate reproductive homeostasis. Male and female immune systems utilize Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) to identify pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). The three main Pattern Recognition Receptors include Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NOD-like receptors (NLRs) and RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) which function as vital protective mechanisms against infections and homeostasis maintenance. The activation of these receptors leads to inflammation and antimicrobial defense mechanisms that protect against infections while maintaining tolerance during vital reproductive processes including fertilization and implantation. Female reproductive tract immunity protects against infections yet maintains tolerance of the semi-allogenic fetus. The cervix, uterus and vagina contain macrophages, dendritic cells and regulatory T cells which perform both inflammation and pathogen surveillance functions. Vaginal microbiota particularly lactobacilli control immune responses through its ability to maintain an acidic environment which blocks pathogen growth. The innate immune system of males protects testes and epididymis and prostate from infections and sperm from immune destruction through the blood-testis barrier. The male reproductive tract maintains sperm integrity for reproduction through balanced antimicrobial peptides and immune cells which defend against pathogens.

The research theme investigates innate immunity's vital role in reproductive physiology through microbial recognition and immune pathway activation which defends against pathogens while establishing reproductive tolerance. The research investigates how innate immunity defends the reproductive tract while maintaining essential immune tolerance needed for fertilization and pregnancy. Recent studies have uncovered new reproductive immune mechanisms which include inflammasomes and extracellular vehicles (EVs) and type I interferon signaling pathways. The immune response pathways function as vital regulators of immune reactions which protect against infections and maintain tolerance during reproductive processes. The advancement of reproductive tract infection treatments and infertility solutions and pregnancy complications requires understanding the precise relationship between innate immunity and reproductive function.

The Research Topic focuses on modern studies of innate immunity in mammalian reproduction with a focus on microbial detection and new immune signaling pathways and their effects on reproductive health and disease. The following research area welcomes submissions of mini-reviews, full reviews and original research articles:

• Immune tolerance to the semi-allogeneic fetus during pregnancy
• Microbiota and Immune Modulation of the Female Genital Tract
• The innate immune system responds to infections that occur in the reproductive tract.
• The broad-spectrum protein class known as antimicrobial peptides demonstrates effective action against a wide range of pathogens and play a crucial role in mammalian reproduction.
• Innate Immunity in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

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Innate Reproductive Immunology and Microbial Recognition Mechanisms in Mammalian Reproductive Systems