Extracellular vesicles are lipoproteinaceous membrane-enclosed nanometer-sized structures produced by cells and are thought to mediate cellular communications. Loaded with a specific set of miRNA and protein depending on their tissue of origin, these extracellular vesicles modulate diverse set of biological processes in their target tissues. In recent years, data has gathered on the roles of extracellular vesicles in embryo implantation and pregnancy. Embryo, oviduct, endometrial epithelium and stroma/ decidua derived vesicles interact with trophoblast cells and promote their growth and differentiation to aid in embryo implantation. The placental vesicles are detected in maternal circulation that aids in feto-maternal immune tolerance, their levels vary in women with pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia. Beyond the host, the microbes in the genital tract are also reported to produce extracellular vesicles which are thought to be responsible for inflammation and preterm births. This review focuses on the extracellular vesicular trafficking involved in success of pregnancy.

The article focuses on data dealing with characterization of black brown melanin produced by marine bacteria Pseudomonas stutzeri BTCZ10. Figures deal with the production of melanin by strain BTCZ10 and characterization of the pigment using biophysical techniques. Table presents the data on photo-protective ability of melanin when blended with commercial sunscreens.

Purpose of the Review Pregnancy brings about an intricate assortment of dynamic changes, which causes proper connection of genetically discordant maternal and foetal tissues. Uterine NK cells are immune cells populating the endometrium and play a major role in implantation and also regulate placentation. This review mainly aims explore the role of uterine NK cells in implantation and how it is affecting in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Recent findings Though the functions of uterine NK (uNK) cells are not clearly understood, NK cell activity plays a vital role during immunomodulation which is the main step in implantation and sustaining the early pregnancy. Cytokines, cell surface receptors of NK cells and hormones such as progesterone modulate the NK cell activity in turn affect the implantation of the embryo. Altered NK cell activity (number and functionality) would be an important attributing factor in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, T regulatory cells and cytokines also modulate the immune responses in the decidua which in turn contributes to successful implantation of embryos. Summary Immunological responses and interactions in the Foetus‐maternal interface is crucial in the successful implantation of allogenic foetus resulting in a healthy pregnancy. NK cells, Treg cells and cytokines play a major role in successful implantation which remains an enigma. Comprehending pregnancy‐induced immunological changes at the foetus‐maternal interface will allow newer therapeutic strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes.

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