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Manoharan A, Ballambattu VB, Palani R. Genetic architecture of preeclampsia. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 558:119656. [PMID: 38583550 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Aarthi Manoharan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Kirumampakkam, Puducherry 607403, India.
| | | | - Ramya Palani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (DU), Kirumampakkam, Puducherry 607403, India
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2
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Hu P, Luo S, Qu G, Luo Q, Tian Y, Huang K, Sun T. Identification and validation of feature genes associated with M1 macrophages in preeclampsia. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:13822-13839. [PMID: 38048229 PMCID: PMC10756132 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific cardiovascular complication that is the leading cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have indicated the importance of immune cells, such as M1 and M2 macrophages, in the pathogenesis of PE. However, the mechanisms leading to immune dysregulation are unclear. Data-independent acquisition proteomic analysis was performed on placental tissues collected from patients with PE and healthy controls. Transcriptome data for placenta samples from patients with PE and their corresponding controls were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differential analysis of transcriptome and proteome data between PE and control groups was performed using R software. Immunocytic infiltration scoring was performed using the quantiseq algorithm. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) screened for feature genes associated with M1 cell infiltration. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis identified hub genes. We confirm that the infiltration score of M1 macrophages was significantly increased in the placental tissues of patients with PE. Differential analysis, WGCNA, and PPI analysis identified four hub molecules associated with M1 cell infiltration (HTRA4, POGK, MFAP5, and INHBA). The hub molecules displayed dysregulated expression in PE tissues. The qPCR, Western blots, and immunohistochemistry analyses confirmed that Inhibin, beta A (INHBA) was highly expressed in placental tissues of patients with PE. Immunofluorescence revealed the extensive infiltration of M1 macrophages in the placental tissues of patients with PE and their co-localization with INHBA. The collective results identified hub genes associated with M1 macrophage infiltration, providing potential targets for the pathogenesis and treatment of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Hu
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Shanshun Luo
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Guangjin Qu
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Qiqi Luo
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Tingting Sun
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
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Rybak-Krzyszkowska M, Staniczek J, Kondracka A, Bogusławska J, Kwiatkowski S, Góra T, Strus M, Górczewski W. From Biomarkers to the Molecular Mechanism of Preeclampsia-A Comprehensive Literature Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13252. [PMID: 37686054 PMCID: PMC10487701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a prevalent obstetric illness affecting pregnant women worldwide. This comprehensive literature review aims to examine the role of biomarkers and understand the molecular mechanisms underlying PE. The review encompasses studies on biomarkers for predicting, diagnosing, and monitoring PE, focusing on their molecular mechanisms in maternal blood or urine samples. Past research has advanced our understanding of PE pathogenesis, but the etiology remains unclear. Biomarkers such as PlGF, sFlt-1, PP-13, and PAPP-A have shown promise in risk classification and preventive measures, although challenges exist, including low detection rates and discrepancies in predicting different PE subtypes. Future perspectives highlight the importance of larger prospective studies to explore predictive biomarkers and their molecular mechanisms, improving screening efficacy and distinguishing between early-onset and late-onset PE. Biomarker assessments offer reliable and cost-effective screening methods for early detection, prognosis, and monitoring of PE. Early identification of high-risk women enables timely intervention, preventing adverse outcomes. Further research is needed to validate and optimize biomarker models for accurate prediction and diagnosis, ultimately improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jakub Staniczek
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Silesia, 40-211 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Adrianna Kondracka
- Department of Obstetrics and Pathology of Pregnancy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Joanna Bogusławska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Sebastian Kwiatkowski
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Góra
- Clinical Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Municipal Hospital, John Paul II in Rzeszów, 35-241 Rzeszów, Poland;
| | - Michał Strus
- Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, University Hospital, 30-688 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Górczewski
- Independent Public Health Care Facility “Bl. Marta Wiecka County Hospital”, 32-700 Bochnia, Poland;
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Moungmaithong S, Kwan AH, Tse AW, Wong NK, Lam MS, Wang J, Poon LC, Sahota DS. Evaluation of first trimester maternal serum inhibin-A for preeclampsia screening. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288289. [PMID: 37428792 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND International professional organizations recommend aspirin prophylaxis to women screened high risk for preterm preeclampsia (PE) in the first trimester. The UK Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) screening test for preterm PE using mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery pulsatility index (UTPI) and placental growth factor (PlGF) was demonstrated to have lower detection rate (DR) in Asian population studies. Additional biomarkers are therefore needed in Asian women to improve screening DRs as a significant proportion of women with preterm and term PE are currently not identified. OBJECTIVES To evaluate maternal serum inhibin-A at 11-13 weeks as an alternative to PlGF or as an additional biomarker within the FMF screening test for preterm PE. STUDY DESIGN This is a nested case-control study using pregnancies initially screened at 11-13 weeks for preterm PE using the FMF triple test in a non-intervention study conducted between December 2016 and June 2018. Inhibin-A levels were retrospectively measured in 1,792 singleton pregnancies, 112 (1.7%) with PE matched for time of initial screening with 1,680 unaffected pregnancies. Inhibin-A levels were transformed to multiple of the expected median (MoM). The distribution of log10 inhibin-A MoM in PE and unaffected pregnancies and the association between log10 inhibin-A MoM and gestational age (GA) at delivery in PE were assessed. The screening performance determined by area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) and detection rates (DRs) at a 10% fixed false positive rate (FPR), for preterm and term PE was determined. All risks for preterm and term PE were based on the FMF competing risk model and Bayes theorem. Differences in AUC (ΔAUC) between different biomarker combinations were compared using the Delong test. McNemar's test was used to assess the off-diagonal change in screening performance at a fixed 10% FPR after adding inhibin-A or replacing PlGF in the preterm PE adjusted risk estimation model. RESULTS Inhibin-A levels in unaffected pregnancies were significantly dependent on GA, maternal age and weight and were lower in parous women with no previous history of PE. Mean log10 inhibin-A MoM in any-onset PE (p<0.001), preterm (p<0.001) and term PE (p = 0.015) pregnancies were all significantly higher than that of unaffected pregnancies. Log10 inhibin-A MoM was inversely but not significantly correlated (p = 0.165) with GA at delivery in PE pregnancies. Replacing PlGF with inhibin-A in the FMF triple test reduced AUC and DR from 0.859 and 64.86% to 0.837 and 54.05%, the ΔAUC was not statistically significant. AUC and DR when adding inhibin-A to the FMF triple test were 0.814, 54.05% and the -0.045 reduction in AUC was statistically significant (p = 0.001). At a fixed 10% FPR, replacing PlGF with inhibin-A identified 1 (2.7%) additional pregnancy but missed 5 (13.5%) pregnancies which subsequently developed preterm PE identified by the FMF triple test. Adding inhibin-A missed 4 (10.8%) pregnancies and did not identify any additional pregnancies with preterm PE. CONCLUSION Replacing PlGF by inhibin-A or adding inhibin-A as an additional biomarker in and to the FMF triple screening test for preterm PE does not improve screening performance and will fail to identify pregnancies that are currently identified by the FMF triple test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakita Moungmaithong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Angel H Kwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ada W Tse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Natalie K Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Michelle S Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liona C Poon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Daljit S Sahota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Komsa-Penkova R, Krumova S, Langari A, Giosheva I, Gartcheva L, Danailova A, Topalova L, Stoyanova T, Strijkova V, Savov A, Todinova S. Blood Plasma Calorimetric Profiles of Women with Preeclampsia: Effect of Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12051032. [PMID: 37237898 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12051032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related disease with poor placentation and presents itself through hypertension and proteinuria. The disease is also associated with the oxidative modification of proteins in maternal blood plasma. In this work, we combine differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), capillary electrophoresis, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to evaluate the changes in the plasma denaturation profiles of patients with preeclampsia (PE) as compared with those of pregnant controls. Our results demonstrate that the last trimester of pregnancy substantially affects the main calorimetric characteristics of blood plasma from pregnant controls relative to nonpregnant women. These variations correlate well with the changes in protein levels determined by electrophoresis. DSC analysis revealed significant deviations in the plasma heat capacity profiles of preeclamptic patients from those of pregnant controls. These alterations are expressed mainly in a substantial reduction in albumin-assigned transitions and an upward shift in its denaturation temperature, lower calorimetric enthalpy changes, and a reduced ratio of heat capacity in the albumin/globulin-assigned thermal transitions, which are more pronounced in severe PE cases. The in vitro oxidation model shows that the alteration of PE thermograms is partly related to protein oxidation. AFM data detected numerous aggregate formations in the plasma of PE samples and fewer small ones in the pregnant controls, which are not found in healthy nonpregnant samples. These findings could serve as a basis for further investigations to reveal the possible relationship between albumin thermal stabilization, the increased inflammatory state and oxidative stress, and protein misfolding in preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Komsa-Penkova
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University-Pleven, Sv. Kliment Ohridski Str. 1, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
| | - Sashka Krumova
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ariana Langari
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ina Giosheva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
- National Genetics Laboratory, University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology "Maichin Dom", Medical University Sofia, Zdrave Str. 2, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lidia Gartcheva
- National Specialized Hospital for Active Treating of Haematological Diseases, 1756 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Avgustina Danailova
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lora Topalova
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Stoyanova
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Velichka Strijkova
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Institute of Optical Materials and Technologies "Acad. Yordan Malinovski", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 109, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Alexey Savov
- National Genetics Laboratory, University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology "Maichin Dom", Medical University Sofia, Zdrave Str. 2, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Svetla Todinova
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, "Acad. G. Bontchev" Str. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
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Barber CV, Yo JH, Rahman RA, Wallace EM, Palmer KR, Marshall SA. Activin A and pathologies of pregnancy: a review. Placenta 2023; 136:35-41. [PMID: 37028223 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Activin A is a two-subunit protein belonging to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. First discovered almost three decades ago, it has since been implicated in diverse physiological roles, ranging from wound repair to reproduction. After 30 years of research, altered activin A levels are now understood to be associated with the development of various diseases, making activin A a potential therapeutic target. In pregnancy, the placenta and fetal membranes are major producers of activin A, with significantly enhanced serum concentrations now recognised as a contributor to numerous gestational disorders. Evidence now suggests that circulating levels of activin A may be clinically relevant in the early detection of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage and preeclampsia. This review aims to summarise our current understanding of activin A as a potential diagnostic marker in common pregnancy pathologies.
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Wang Y, Li B, Zhao Y. Inflammation in Preeclampsia: Genetic Biomarkers, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883404. [PMID: 35880174 PMCID: PMC9307876 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Preeclampsia is a common and serious complication of pregnancy, posing a threat to maternal and fetal safety due to the lack of effective biomarkers and treatment strategies. This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers that can be used to predict preeclampsia and identify the molecular mechanisms of preeclampsia pathogenesis and drug prediction at the transcriptome level. Methods We analyzed differential expression genes (DEGs) in preeclampsia and non-preeclampsia groups in the GSE75010 dataset, cross-linking with extracted inflammatory response-related genes to obtain differentially expressed inflammation-related genes (DINRGs). Enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed to understand the functions and enrichment pathways. Machine learning models were used to identify key genes associated with preeclampsia and build a nomogram in the training set, which was validated in the validation set. The R package RcisTarget was used to predict transcription factors, and Cytoscape was used to construct miRNA-mRNA pathways, which could identify the molecular mechanisms. Then, we conducted molecular docking of the obtained key genes INHBA (inhibin subunit beta A), OPRK1 (opioid receptor kappa 1), and TPBG (trophoblast glycoprotein), as well as predicted transcription factors with drug molecules. Additionally, the CIBERSORT method explored the differences in immune cell infiltration between preeclampsia and non-preeclampsia samples based on the GSE75010 dataset. Results A total of 69 DINRGs associated with preeclampsia patients were screened. INHBA, OPRK1, and TPBG were the key genes based on machine learning models. A nomogram for prediction was further constructed, and the receiver operating curves (ROCs) showed good performance. Based on the transcriptome level of key genes, we proposed that RELA-miR-548K/miR-1206-TPBG may be a potential RNA regulatory pathway regulating the progression of early preeclampsia. Molecular docking suggested the effectiveness of curcumin in the treatment of preeclampsia. Additionally, regulatory T cells (Tregs) and resting mast cells were significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion In summary, we identified three key inflammation-associated genes, namely INHBA, OPRK1, and TPBG, which can be used as potential genetic biomarkers for preeclampsia prediction and treatment, and established a nomogram as a predictive model. Additionally, we provided insights into the mechanisms of preeclampsia development at the transcriptome level and performed corresponding drug predictions.
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Sustained Elevated Circulating Activin A Impairs Global Longitudinal Strain in Pregnant Rats: A Potential Mechanism for Preeclampsia-Related Cardiac Dysfunction. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040742. [PMID: 35203391 PMCID: PMC8870359 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mediators of cardiac injury in preeclampsia are not well understood. Preeclamptic women have decreased cardiac global longitudinal strain (GLS), a sensitive measure of systolic function that indicates fibrosis and tissue injury. GLS is worse in preeclampsia compared to gestational hypertension, despite comparable blood pressure, suggesting that placental factors may be involved. We previously showed that Activin A, a pro-fibrotic factor produced in excess by the placenta in preeclampsia, predicts impaired GLS postpartum. Here, we hypothesized that chronic excess levels of Activin A during pregnancy induces cardiac dysfunction. Rats were assigned to sham or activin A infusion (1.25–6 µg/day) on a gestational day (GD) 14 (n = 6–10/group). All animals underwent blood pressure measurement and comprehensive echocardiography followed by euthanasia and the collection of tissue samples on GD 19. Increased circulating activin A (sham: 0.59 ± 0.05 ng/mL, 6 µg/day: 2.8 ± 0.41 ng/mL, p < 0.01) was associated with impaired GLS (Sham: −22.1 ± 0.8%, 6 µg/day: −14.7 ± 1.14%, p < 0.01). Activin A infusion (6 µg/day) increased beta-myosin heavy chain expression in heart tissue, indicating cardiac injury. In summary, our findings indicate that increasing levels of activin A during pregnancy induces cardiac dysfunction and supports the concept that activin A may serve as a possible mediator of PE-induced cardiac dysfunction.
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Neven ACH, Mousa A, Boyle JA, Teede HJ. Endocrine and metabolic interactions in healthy pregnancies and hyperinsulinemic pregnancies affected by polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes and obesity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:993619. [PMID: 36733795 PMCID: PMC9886898 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.993619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the fetoplacental unit is key in the pronounced physiological endocrine changes which support pregnancy, fetal development and survival, birth and lactation. In healthy women, pregnancy is characterized by changes in insulin sensitivity and increased maternal androgen levels. These are accompanied by a suite of mechanisms that support fetal growth, maintain glucose homeostasis and protect both mother and fetus from adverse effects of pregnancy induced insulin and androgen excess. In pregnancies affected by endocrine, metabolic disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes and obesity, there is an imbalance of beneficial and adverse impacts of pregnancy induced endocrine changes. These inter-related conditions are characterized by an interplay of hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism which influence fetoplacental function and are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, macrosomia, preterm delivery and caesarean section. However, the exact underlying mechanisms and relationships of the endocrine and metabolic milieu in these disorders and the impact they have on the prenatal endocrine environment and developing fetus remain poorly understood. Here we aim to review the complex endocrine and metabolic interactions in healthy women during normal pregnancies and those in pregnancies complicated by hyperinsulinemic disorders (PCOS, diabetes and obesity). We also explore the relationships between these endocrine and metabolic differences and the fetoplacental unit, pregnancy outcomes and the developing fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana C. H. Neven
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Aya Mousa
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A. Boyle
- Monash Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Jacqueline A. Boyle,
| | - Helena J. Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Wong GP, Andres F, Walker SP, MacDonald TM, Cannon P, Nguyen TV, Keenan E, Hannan NJ, Tong S, Kaitu'u-Lino TJ. Circulating Activin A is elevated at 36 weeks' gestation preceding a diagnosis of preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2021; 27:23-26. [PMID: 34844073 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Activin A is aberrantly expressed by the preeclamptic placenta and circulating levels have been investigated as a potential biomarker for the disease. In a nested case-control study we measured Activin A levels in maternal plasma at 28- and 36-weeks' gestation preceding term preeclampsia diagnosis. At 28 weeks Activin A was not significantly altered (n = 73 destined to develop preeclampsia vs n = 191 controls). At 36 weeks' gestation Activin A was significantly increased in 40 women destined to develop preeclampsia relative to 201 controls (p < 0.0001). These findings provide further validation of Activin A as a potential biomarker for subsequent term preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia P Wong
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Faith Andres
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan P Walker
- Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Ping Cannon
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tuong-Vi Nguyen
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emerson Keenan
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie J Hannan
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Tong
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tu'uhevaha J Kaitu'u-Lino
- Translational Obstetrics Group, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Perinatal, Mercy Hospital for Women, Victoria, Australia.
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Defective Uteroplacental Vascular Remodeling in Preeclampsia: Key Molecular Factors Leading to Long Term Cardiovascular Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011202. [PMID: 34681861 PMCID: PMC8539609 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a complex hypertensive disorder in pregnancy which can be lethal and is responsible for more than 70,000 maternal deaths worldwide every year. Besides the higher risk of unfavorable obstetric outcomes in women with preeclampsia, another crucial aspect that needs to be considered is the association between preeclampsia and the postpartum cardiovascular health of the mother. Currently, preeclampsia is classified as one of the major risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women, which doubles the risk of venous thromboembolic events, stroke, and ischemic heart disease. In order to comprehend the pathophysiology behind the linkage between preeclampsia and the development of postpartum CVD, a thorough understanding of the abnormal uteroplacental vascular remodeling in preeclampsia is essential. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the current knowledge of the defective process of spiral artery remodeling in preeclampsia and how the resulting placental damage leads to excessive angiogenic imbalance and systemic inflammation in long term CVD. Key molecular factors in the pathway-including novel findings of microRNAs-will be discussed with suggestions of future management strategies of preventing CVD in women with a history of preeclampsia.
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12
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Langston-Cox A, Marshall SA, Lu D, Palmer KR, Wallace EM. Melatonin for the Management of Preeclampsia: A Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10030376. [PMID: 33802558 PMCID: PMC8002171 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a disease specific to pregnancy characterised by new-onset hypertension with maternal organ dysfunction and/or fetal growth restriction. It remains a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. For sixty years, antihypertensives have been the mainstay of treating preeclampsia and only recently have insights into the pathogenesis of the disease opened new avenues for novel therapies. Melatonin is one such option, an endogenous and safe antioxidant, that may improve the maternal condition in preeclampsia while protecting the fetus from a hostile intrauterine environment. Here we review the evidence for melatonin as a possible adjuvant therapy for preeclampsia, including in vitro evidence supporting a role for melatonin in protecting the human placenta, preclinical models, vascular studies, and clinical studies in hypertension and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Langston-Cox
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (A.L.-C.); (S.A.M.); (D.L.); (K.R.P.)
| | - Sarah A. Marshall
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (A.L.-C.); (S.A.M.); (D.L.); (K.R.P.)
| | - Daisy Lu
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (A.L.-C.); (S.A.M.); (D.L.); (K.R.P.)
| | - Kirsten R. Palmer
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (A.L.-C.); (S.A.M.); (D.L.); (K.R.P.)
- Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Euan M. Wallace
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (A.L.-C.); (S.A.M.); (D.L.); (K.R.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-9594-5145; Fax: +61-3-9594-5003
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13
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Maternal Serum Inhibin-A Augments the Value of Maternal Serum PlGF and of sFlt-1/PlGF Ratio in the Prediction of Preeclampsia and/or FGR Near Delivery—A Secondary Analysis. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/reprodmed2010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: We previously provided evidence to confirm that maternal serum levels of soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), placental growth factor (PlGF), and their ratio are useful tools to direct the management of preeclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and PE+FGR near delivery. In this secondary analysis, we further examine the potential additive value of maternal serum Inhibin-A, which is a hormone marker of the transforming growth factor family, to the accuracy provided by maternal serum PlGF and sFlt-1. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis where we extracted the data of a cohort of 125 pregnant women enrolled near delivery at the clinics of the University Medical Center of Ljubljana, Slovenia. The dataset included 31 cases of PE, 16 of FGR, 42 of PE+FGR, 15 preterm delivery (PTD), and 21 unaffected controls with delivery of a healthy baby at term. Cases delivered before 34 weeks’ gestation included 10 of PE, 12 of FGR, 28 of PE+FGR, and 6 of PTD. In addition to the recorded demographic characteristics and medical history and the maternal serum levels of PlGF and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, which were previously published, we evaluated the added value of maternal serum Inhibin-A. The predictive accuracy of each biomarker, their ratios, and combinations were estimated from areas under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves, Box and Whisker plots, and by multiple regression. We estimated accuracy by the continuous marker model and a cutoff model. Results: In this study, we combined Inhibin-A with PlGF or with the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio and showed a 10–20% increase in AUCs and 15–45% increase in the detection rate, at 10% false positive rate, of PE, and a lower, but significant, increase for PE+FGR and FGR in all cases but not for FGR in early cases delivered < 34 weeks. The use of a cutoff model was adequate, although a bit higher accuracy was obtained from the continuous model. The highest correlation was found for PlGF with all three complications. Conclusion: In this secondary analysis, we have found that maternal serum Inhibin-A improves the accuracy of predicting PE and PE+FGR provided by maternal serum angiogenic markers alone, bringing the results to a diagnostic level; thus, it could be considered for directing clinical management. Inhibin-A had smaller or no added value for the accuracy of predicting FGR alone, mainly of early cases delivered <34 weeks.
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14
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Neuman RI, Alblas van der Meer MM, Nieboer D, Saleh L, Verdonk K, Kalra B, Kumar A, Alpadi K, van den Meiracker AH, Visser W, Danser AHJ. PAPP-A2 and Inhibin A as Novel Predictors for Pregnancy Complications in Women With Suspected or Confirmed Preeclampsia. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e018219. [PMID: 32990126 PMCID: PMC7792419 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background We aimed to evaluate the value of inhibin A and PAPP-A2 (pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A2) as novel biomarkers in the prediction of preeclampsia-related complications and how they compare with angiogenic biomarkers. Methods and Results Making use of a secondary analysis of a prospective, multicenter, observational study, intended to evaluate the usefulness of sFlt-1 (soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1)/PlGF (placental growth factor) ratio, we measured inhibin A and PAPP-A2 levels in 524 women with suspected/confirmed preeclampsia. Women had a median gestational age of 35 weeks (range, 20-41 weeks) while preeclampsia occurred in 170 (32%) women. Levels of inhibin A and PAPP-A2 were significantly increased in women with preeclampsia and in maternal perfusate of preeclamptic placentas. Inhibin A and PAPP-A2 (C-index = 0.73 and 0.75) significantly improved the prediction of maternal complications when added on top of the traditional criteria; gestational age, parity, proteinuria, and diastolic blood pressure (C-index = 0.60). PAPP-A2 was able to improve the C-index from 0.75 to 0.77 when added on top of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio for the prediction of maternal complications. To discriminate fetal/neonatal complications on top of traditional criteria, inhibin A and PAPP-A2 showed additive value (C-index = 0.79 to 0.80 and 0.82, respectively) but their discriminative ability remained inferior to that of sFlt-1/PlGF ratio or PlGF. Interestingly, the PAPP-A2/PlGF ratio alone showed remarkable value to predict pregnancy complications, being superior to sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in the case of maternal complications. Conclusions Inhibin A and PAPP-A2 show significant potential to predict preeclampsia-related pregnancy complications and might prove beneficial on top of the angiogenic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rugina I. Neuman
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Pharmacology and Vascular MedicineErasmus Medical Center RotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsErasmus Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Daan Nieboer
- Department of Public HealthRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Langeza Saleh
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Pharmacology and Vascular MedicineErasmus Medical Center RotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsErasmus Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Koen Verdonk
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Pharmacology and Vascular MedicineErasmus Medical Center RotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Anton H. van den Meiracker
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Pharmacology and Vascular MedicineErasmus Medical Center RotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Willy Visser
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Pharmacology and Vascular MedicineErasmus Medical Center RotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsErasmus Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - A. H. Jan Danser
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Pharmacology and Vascular MedicineErasmus Medical Center RotterdamThe Netherlands
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15
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Gyselaers W. Preeclampsia Is a Syndrome with a Cascade of Pathophysiologic Events. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9072245. [PMID: 32679789 PMCID: PMC7409017 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This review integrates the currently available information on the molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. It highlights that the growth, protection, and promotion of the conceptus requires the modulation of an intact maternal immune system, communication between the mother and fetus, and adaptation of the maternal organic functions. A malfunction in any of these factors, on either side, will result in a failure of the cascade of events required for the normal course of pregnancy. Maladaptive processes, initially aiming to protect the conceptus, fail to anticipate the gradually increasing cardiovascular volume load during the course of pregnancy. As a result, multiple organ dysfunctions install progressively and eventually reach a state where mother and/or fetus are at risk of severe morbidity or even mortality, and where the termination of pregnancy becomes the least harmful solution. The helicopter view on pathophysiologic processes associated with preeclampsia, as presented in this paper, illustrates that the etiology of preeclampsia cannot be reduced to one single mechanism, but is to be considered a cascade of consecutive events, fundamentally not unique to pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfried Gyselaers
- Department Obstetrics, Ziekenhuis Oost Limburg, B3600 Genk, Belgium; ; Tel.: +32-89-306420
- Department Physiology, Hasselt University, B3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
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16
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Hao S, You J, Chen L, Zhao H, Huang Y, Zheng L, Tian L, Maric I, Liu X, Li T, Bianco YK, Winn VD, Aghaeepour N, Gaudilliere B, Angst MS, Zhou X, Li YM, Mo L, Wong RJ, Shaw GM, Stevenson DK, Cohen HJ, Mcelhinney DB, Sylvester KG, Ling XB. Changes in pregnancy-related serum biomarkers early in gestation are associated with later development of preeclampsia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230000. [PMID: 32126118 PMCID: PMC7053753 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Placental protein expression plays a crucial role during pregnancy. We hypothesized that: (1) circulating levels of pregnancy-associated, placenta-related proteins throughout gestation reflect the temporal progression of the uncomplicated, full-term pregnancy, and can effectively estimate gestational ages (GAs); and (2) preeclampsia (PE) is associated with disruptions in these protein levels early in gestation; and can identify impending PE. We also compared gestational profiles of proteins in the human and mouse, using pregnant heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) heterozygote (Het) mice, a mouse model reflecting PE-like symptoms. Methods Serum levels of placenta-related proteins–leptin (LEP), chorionic somatomammotropin hormone like 1 (CSHL1), elabela (ELA), activin A, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1), and placental growth factor (PlGF)–were quantified by ELISA in blood serially collected throughout human pregnancies (20 normal subjects with 66 samples, and 20 subjects who developed PE with 61 samples). Multivariate analysis was performed to estimate the GA in normal pregnancy. Mean-squared errors of GA estimations were used to identify impending PE. The human protein profiles were then compared with those in the pregnant HO-1 Het mice. Results An elastic net-based gestational dating model was developed (R2 = 0.76) and validated (R2 = 0.61) using serum levels of the 6 proteins measured at various GAs from women with normal uncomplicated pregnancies. In women who developed PE, the model was not (R2 = -0.17) associated with GA. Deviations from the model estimations were observed in women who developed PE (P = 0.01). The model developed with 5 proteins (ELA excluded) performed similarly from sera from normal human (R2 = 0.68) and WT mouse (R2 = 0.85) pregnancies. Disruptions of this model were observed in both human PE-associated (R2 = 0.27) and mouse HO-1 Het (R2 = 0.30) pregnancies. LEP outperformed sFlt-1 and PlGF in differentiating impending PE at early human and late mouse GAs. Conclusions Serum placenta-related protein profiles are temporally regulated throughout normal pregnancies and significantly disrupted in women who develop PE. LEP changes earlier than the well-established biomarkers (sFlt-1 and PlGF). There may be evidence of a causative action of HO-1 deficiency in LEP upregulation in a PE-like murine model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiying Hao
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Clinical and Translational Research Program, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
| | - Jin You
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Yujuan Huang
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Le Zheng
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Clinical and Translational Research Program, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
| | - Lu Tian
- Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Ivana Maric
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Ylayaly K. Bianco
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Virginia D. Winn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Nima Aghaeepour
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Brice Gaudilliere
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Martin S. Angst
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Xin Zhou
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Target Organ Injury, Pingjin Hospital Heart Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu-Ming Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Target Organ Injury, Pingjin Hospital Heart Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Lihong Mo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco-Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Ronald J. Wong
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Gary M. Shaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - David K. Stevenson
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Harvey J. Cohen
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Doff B. Mcelhinney
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Clinical and Translational Research Program, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
| | - Karl G. Sylvester
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Xuefeng B. Ling
- Clinical and Translational Research Program, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Association between ACVR2A gene polymorphisms and risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in the northern Chinese population. Placenta 2020; 90:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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18
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Adu-Gyamfi EA, Lamptey J, Duan F, Wang YX, Ding YB. The transforming growth factor β superfamily as possible biomarkers of preeclampsia: a comprehensive review. Biomark Med 2019; 13:1321-1330. [PMID: 31559841 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2019-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The etiology of preeclampsia - an abnormal placentation-mediated disease - is not fully understood; and there are very few biomarkers with which to predict and diagnose it. Early prediction and diagnosis of this pathology can lead to a significant improvement in maternal and perinatal outcomes. Since members of the transforming growth factor β superfamily influence placentation, and are released from the placenta into the maternal circulatory system, several studies have investigated the involvement of these cytokines in preeclampsia and the possibility of using their serum levels as biomarkers of the disease. In this review, we have summarized the reported relationships between the levels of this superfamily of cytokines and preeclampsia. The available information indicates that altered levels of some of these cytokines are involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of preeclampsia, suggesting their likelihood of serving as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Jones Lamptey
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Fumei Duan
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
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19
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Marshall SA, Cox AG, Parry LJ, Wallace EM. Targeting the vascular dysfunction: Potential treatments for preeclampsia. Microcirculation 2018; 26:e12522. [PMID: 30556222 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disorder, primarily characterized by new-onset hypertension in combination with a variety of other maternal or fetal signs. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease are still not entirely clear. Systemic maternal vascular dysfunction underlies the clinical features of preeclampsia. It is a result of oxidative stress and the actions of excessive anti-angiogenic factors, such as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase, soluble endoglin, and activin A, released by a dysfunctional placenta. The vascular dysfunction then leads to impaired regulation and secretion of relaxation factors and an increase in sensitivity/production of constrictors. This results in a more constricted vasculature rather than the relaxed vasodilated state associated with normal pregnancy. Currently, the only effective "treatment" for preeclampsia is delivery of the placenta and therefore the baby. Often, this means a preterm delivery to save the life of the mother, with all the attendant risks and burdens associated with fetal prematurity. To lessen this burden, there is a pressing need for more effective treatments that target the maternal vascular dysfunction that underlies the hypertension. This review details the vascular effects of key drugs undergoing clinical assessment as potential treatments for women with preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Marshall
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, The Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Annie G Cox
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, The Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, The Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Capriglione S, Plotti F, Terranova C, Gulino FA, Di Guardo F, Lopez S, Scaletta G, Angioli R. Preeclampsia and the challenge of early prediction: reality or utopia? State of art and critical review of literature. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 33:677-686. [PMID: 29954233 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1495191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The challenge to obtain improved predictive tools, able to identify women destined to develop preeclampsia (PE), is raising the interest of researchers for the attractive chance to allow for timely initiation of prophylactic therapy, appropriate antenatal surveillance, and better-targeted research into preventive interventions. We aimed to gather all the evidence reported up to now in scientific literature relating to all prediction tests for PE.Materials and methods: We searched articles on conventional literature platforms from January 1952 to August 2016, using the terms "preeclampsia," "gestational preeclampsia," and "gestational hypertensive disorders" combined with "predictive test" and "risk assessment." Abstracts/titles identified by the search were screened by three investigators.Results: The search identified 203 citations, of which 154 potentially relevant after the initial evaluation. Among these studies, 20 full articles were excluded, therefore, 134 primary studies met the criteria for inclusion and were analyzed.Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that a combination of several features may provide the best predictive accuracy for the identification of PE. Large-scale, multicenter, multiethnic, prospective trials are required to propose an ideal combination of markers for routine screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Capriglione
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Plotti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Terranova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Center of Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Di Guardo
- Center of Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Scaletta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Angioli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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21
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Glotov AS, Kazakov SV, Vashukova ES, Pakin VS, Danilova MM, Nasykhova YA, Masharsky AE, Mozgovaya EV, Eremeeva DR, Zainullina MS, Baranov VS. Targeted sequencing analysis of ACVR2A gene identifies novel risk variants associated with preeclampsia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 32:2790-2796. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1449204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrey S. Glotov
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Biobank of the Research Park, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Sergey V. Kazakov
- Computer Technologies Laboratory, ITMO University, St. Petersburg, Russia
- JetBrains Research, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena S. Vashukova
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Biobank of the Research Park, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Vladimir S. Pakin
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Biobank of the Research Park, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maria M. Danilova
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Biobank of the Research Park, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Yulia A. Nasykhova
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Biobank of the Research Park, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksey E. Masharsky
- Research Resource Centre for Molecular and Cell Technologies, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena V. Mozgovaya
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | | | - Vladislav S. Baranov
- Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnostics of Hereditary Diseases, FSBSI “The Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott”, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Biobank of the Research Park, Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
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22
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Broumand F, Lak SS, Nemati F, Mazidi A. A study of the diagnostic value of Inhibin A Tests for occurrence of preeclampsia in pregnant women. Electron Physician 2018; 10:6186-6192. [PMID: 29588818 PMCID: PMC5853992 DOI: 10.19082/6186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertensive disorders are common during pregnancy, and are among 3 important causes of maternal death. Preeclampsia occurs in 3 to 5% of pregnancies. Early diagnosis of this disorder can lead to better pregnancy outcomes. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between inhibin A serum levels during second stage pregnancy screening tests, and incidence and severity of preeclampsia. Methods In this study, 300 pregnant women who referred to Kowsar Hospital and carried out second stage pregnancy screening tests from September 2014 to March 2015 in Urmia city, Iran, were enrolled. Five ml venous blood samples were obtained from each participant, and inhibin A serum levels were evaluated in all cases. Finally, all the necessary information was obtained from the pregnancy files of participants after delivery, and gathered in a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 18 and independent t-test, ANOVA and descriptive statistics were used. P-values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results Among the 300 pregnant women who were studied, the gestational age at the time of acquiring blood samples was as follows: 169 cases (56.3%) at 16-17 weeks, 77 cases (25.7%) at 18-19 weeks and 14 cases at 20 weeks (4.7%). In this study, MOM of inhibin A was more than 1.25 in 12 cases that finally, preeclampsia occurred in them. This relationship was statistically significant (p=0.001). The relationship between MOM of inhibin A and severe preeclampsia was evaluated, and the relationship was significant (p=0.004). The relationship between MOM of inhibin A and pregnancy hypertension was not significant (p=0.643). Conclusion Considering the results of this study, we can conclude that MOM of inhibin A levels in maternal serum during second stage pregnancy screening tests can predict incidence and severity of developing preeclampsia in pregnant women. This is not true in cases of pregnancy hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Broumand
- M.D., Associate Professor of Gynecology, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shaker Salari Lak
- Associate Professor of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Nemati
- M.D., Cytopathologist, Nemati Clinical Laboratory, Urmia, Iran
| | - Atefeh Mazidi
- M.D., Gynecologist, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Role of Activin A in the Pathogenesis of Endothelial Cell Dysfunction in Preeclampsia. Methods Mol Biol 2017. [PMID: 29196993 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7498-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
This chapter describes the methodologies which may be used in evaluating in vitro endothelial cell dysfunction in preeclampsia.
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Montagnana M, Danese E, Lippi G, Fava C. Blood laboratory testing for early prediction of preeclampsia: chasing the finish line or at the starting blocks? Ann Med 2017; 49:240-253. [PMID: 27791388 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2016.1255350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) affects 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide, thus representing an important cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity, up to death. Many studies have been designed to identify putative biomarkers for accurate and timely diagnosing PE, but only some of them were focused on specific and sensitive biomarkers for early prediction of this life-threatening condition. In particular, some prospective studies aimed to investigate the predictive role of circulating biomarkers before 20 weeks of gestation in the general pregnant population yielded conflicting results. This article is hence centered on results obtained in studies investigating the predictive performances of angiogenic, anti-angiogenic, inflammatory, endocrine, and epigenetic biomarkers. The available evidence suggests that angiogenic and anti-angiogenic molecules, in particular the sFlt1:PlGF ratio, may be considered the biomarkers with the best diagnostic performance in the second trimester. However, doubts remain about their use in clinical settings before the 20th gestational week. Even lower evidence is available for other biomarkers, due to the fact that some positive results have not been confirmed in ensuing investigations, whereas unresolved analytical issues still contribute to make their clinical reliability rather questionable. Differential expression of microRNAs seems also a promising evidence for early prediction of PE, but additional research and well-designed prospective studies are needed to identify and validate routine predictive tests. KEY MESSAGES Preeclampsia affects 2-8% of pregnant women worldwide, thus remaining one of the leading causes of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Several studies have investigated the predictive role of circulating biomarkers before 20th week of gestation with conflicting results. Additional research and well-designed prospective studies are needed to identify and validate predictive tests in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Montagnana
- a Sezione di Biochimica Clinica, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze , Biomedicina e Movimento Università di Verona , Italy
| | - Elisa Danese
- a Sezione di Biochimica Clinica, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze , Biomedicina e Movimento Università di Verona , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- a Sezione di Biochimica Clinica, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze , Biomedicina e Movimento Università di Verona , Italy
| | - Cristiano Fava
- b Sezione di Medicina Interna C, Dipartimento di Medicina , Università di Verona , Italy
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Xu YT, Shen MH, Jin AY, Li H, Zhu R. Maternal circulating levels of transforming growth factor-β superfamily and its soluble receptors in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2017; 137:246-252. [PMID: 28281288 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2016] [Revised: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess circulating levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily members and their soluble receptors in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and to investigate associations with clinical manifestations. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted using data for women admitted to a center in China for delivery between May 2011 and April 2013. Women with severe pre-eclampsia, mild pre-eclampsia, and gestational hypertension were included, along with a control group. Serum levels of activin A, inhibin A, TGF-β1, soluble endoglin (sEng), and soluble betaglycan (sBG) were measured. RESULTS Women with severe pre-eclampsia (n = 17) had higher mean levels of activin A (23.5±2.1 μg/L), inhibin A (1.7±0.2 μg/L), sEng (32.1±3.2 μg/L), and sBG (84.1±9.4 μg/L) than did normotensive controls (n = 18), women with gestational hypertension (n = 15), and those with mild pre-eclampsia (n = 14; all P<0.05). Women with early-onset pre-eclampsia (n = 13) had higher levels of these serum markers than did preterm normotensive controls (n = 8; all P<0.001). Women with severe or early-onset pre-eclampsia had the lowest TGF-β1 levels. Activin A, inhibin A, sEng, and sBG levels were positively correlated with mean arterial pressure and proteinuria (all P<0.01). CONCLUSION Pre-eclampsia is associated with an imbalance of members of the TGF-β superfamily and their soluble receptors, which might contribute to the development of pre-eclampsia and help to predict onset and severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ting Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Min-Hong Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ai-Ying Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
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Svirsky R, Maymon R, Melcer Y, Klog E, Cuckle H. First and second trimester maternal serum inhibin A levels in twins with pre-eclampsia. Prenat Diagn 2016; 36:1071-1074. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.4937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Svirsky
- Institute of Ultrasound, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Assaf Harofeh Medical Centre, affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine; Tel Aviv Israel
- Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
| | - Ron Maymon
- Institute of Ultrasound, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Assaf Harofeh Medical Centre, affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine; Tel Aviv Israel
- Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
| | - Yaakov Melcer
- Institute of Ultrasound, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Assaf Harofeh Medical Centre, affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine; Tel Aviv Israel
- Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
| | - Esther Klog
- Institute of Ultrasound, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Assaf Harofeh Medical Centre, affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine; Tel Aviv Israel
- Tel Aviv University; Tel Aviv Israel
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Hobson SR, Acharya R, Lim R, Chan ST, Mockler J, Wallace EM. Role of activin A in the pathogenesis of endothelial cell dysfunction in preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2016; 6:130-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Wijayarathna R, de Kretser DM. Activins in reproductive biology and beyond. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:342-57. [PMID: 26884470 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activins are members of the pleiotrophic family of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily of cytokines, initially isolated for their capacity to induce the release of FSH from pituitary extracts. Subsequent research has demonstrated that activins are involved in multiple biological functions including the control of inflammation, fibrosis, developmental biology and tumourigenesis. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the roles of activin in reproductive and developmental biology. It also discusses interesting advances in the field of modulating the bioactivity of activins as a therapeutic target, which would undoubtedly be beneficial for patients with reproductive pathology. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was carried out using PUBMED and Google Scholar databases to identify studies in the English language which have contributed to the advancement of the field of activin biology, since its initial isolation in 1987 until July 2015. 'Activin', 'testis', 'ovary', 'embryonic development' and 'therapeutic targets' were used as the keywords in combination with other search phrases relevant to the topic of activin biology. RESULTS Activins, which are dimers of inhibin β subunits, act via a classical TGF-β signalling pathway. The bioactivity of activin is regulated by two endogenous inhibitors, inhibin and follistatin. Activin is a major regulator of testicular and ovarian development. In the ovary, activin A promotes oocyte maturation and regulates granulosa cell steroidogenesis. It is also essential in endometrial repair following menstruation, decidualization and maintaining pregnancy. Dysregulation of the activin-follistatin-inhibin system leads to disorders of female reproduction and pregnancy, including polycystic ovary syndrome, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and pre-term birth. Moreover, a rise in serum activin A, accompanied by elevated FSH, is characteristic of female reproductive aging. In the male, activin A is an autocrine and paracrine modulator of germ cell development and Sertoli cell proliferation. Disruption of normal activin signalling is characteristic of many tumours affecting reproductive organs, including endometrial carcinoma, cervical cancer, testicular and ovarian cancer as well as prostate cancer. While activin A and B aid the progression of many tumours of the reproductive organs, activin C acts as a tumour suppressor. Activins are important in embryonic induction, morphogenesis of branched glandular organs, development of limbs and nervous system, craniofacial and dental development and morphogenesis of the Wolffian duct. CONCLUSIONS The field of activin biology has advanced considerably since its initial discovery as an FSH stimulating agent. Now, activin is well known as a growth factor and cytokine that regulates many aspects of reproductive biology, developmental biology and also inflammation and immunological mechanisms. Current research provides evidence for novel roles of activins in maintaining the structure and function of reproductive and other organ systems. The fact that activin A is elevated both locally as well as systemically in major disorders of the reproductive system makes it an important biomarker. Given the established role of activin A as a pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic agent, studies of its involvement in disorders of reproduction resulting from these processes should be examined. Follistatin, as a key regulator of the biological actions of activin, should be evaluated as a therapeutic agent in conditions where activin A overexpression is established as a contributing factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Wijayarathna
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31, Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - D M de Kretser
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31, Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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Irge E, Halici Z, Yilmaz M, Cadirci E, Karakus E. Evaluation of 5-HT7receptor expression in the placentae of normal and pre-eclamptic women. Clin Exp Hypertens 2016; 38:189-93. [DOI: 10.3109/10641963.2015.1081215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Ahmed A, Rezai H, Broadway-Stringer S. Evidence-Based Revised View of the Pathophysiology of Preeclampsia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 956:355-374. [PMID: 27873232 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2016_168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a life-threatening vascular disorder of pregnancy due to a failing stressed placenta. Millions of women risk death to give birth each year and globally each year, almost 300,000 lose their life in this process and over 500,000 babies die as a consequence of preeclampsia. Despite decades of research, we lack pharmacological agents to treat it. Maternal endothelial oxidative stress is a central phenomenon responsible for the preeclampsia phenotype of high maternal blood pressure and proteinuria. In 1997, it was proposed that preeclampsia arises due to the loss of VEGF activity, possibly due to elevation in anti-angiogenic factor, soluble Flt-1 (sFlt-1). Researchers showed that high sFlt-1 and soluble endoglin (sEng) elicit the severe preeclampsia phenotype in pregnant rodents. We demonstrated that heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)/carbon monoxide (CO) pathway prevents placental stress and suppresses sFlt-1 and sEng release. Likewise, hydrogen sulphide (H2S)/cystathionine-γ-lyase (Cth) systems limit sFlt-1 and sEng and protect against the preeclampsia phenotype in mice. Importantly, H2S restores placental vasculature, and in doing so improves lagging fetal growth. These molecules act as the inhibitor systems in pregnancy and when they fail, preeclampsia is triggered. In this review, we discuss what are the hypotheses and models for the pathophysiology of preeclampsia on the basis of Bradford Hill causation criteria for disease causation and how further in vivo experimentation is needed to establish 'proof of principle'. Hypotheses that fail to meet the Bradford Hill causation criteria include abnormal spiral artery remodelling and inflammation and should be considered associated or consequential to the disorder. In contrast, the protection against cellular stress hypothesis that states that the protective pathways mitigate cellular stress by limiting elevation of anti-angiogenic factors or oxidative stress and the subsequent clinical signs of preeclampsia appear to fulfil most of Bradford Hill causation criteria. Identifying the candidates on the roadmap to this pathway is essential in developing diagnostics and therapeutics to target the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmed
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK.
| | - Homira Rezai
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
| | - Sophie Broadway-Stringer
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
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31
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Costa MA. The endocrine function of human placenta: an overview. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 32:14-43. [PMID: 26615903 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, several tightly coordinated and regulated processes take place to enable proper fetal development and gestational success. The formation and development of the placenta is one of these critical pregnancy events. This organ plays essential roles during gestation, including fetal nourishment, support and protection, gas exchange and production of several hormones and other mediators. Placental hormones are mainly secreted by the syncytiotrophoblast, in a highly and tightly regulated way. These hormones are important for pregnancy establishment and maintenance, exerting autocrine and paracrine effects that regulate decidualization, placental development, angiogenesis, endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, immunotolerance and fetal development. In addition, because they are released into maternal circulation, the profile of their blood levels throughout pregnancy has been the target of intense research towards finding potential robust and reliable biomarkers to predict and diagnose pregnancy-associated complications. In fact, altered levels of these hormones have been associated with some pathologies, such as chromosomal anomalies or pre-eclampsia. This review proposes to revise and update the main pregnancy-related hormones, addressing their major characteristics, molecular targets, function throughout pregnancy, regulators of their expression and their potential clinical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana A Costa
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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32
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Yong HE, Murthi P, Wong MH, Kalionis B, Cartwright JE, Brennecke SP, Keogh RJ. Effects of normal and high circulating concentrations of activin A on vascular endothelial cell functions and vasoactive factor production. Pregnancy Hypertens 2015; 5:346-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2015.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Park HJ, Shim SS, Cha DH. Combined Screening for Early Detection of Pre-Eclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:17952-74. [PMID: 26247944 PMCID: PMC4581230 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160817952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the precise pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia remains unknown, this condition continues to be a major cause of maternal and fetal mortality. Early prediction of pre-eclampsia would allow for timely initiation of preventive therapy. A combination of biophysical and biochemical markers are superior to other tests for early prediction of the development of pre-eclampsia. Apart from the use of parameters in first-trimester aneuploidy screening, cell-free fetal DNA quantification is emerging as a promising marker for prediction of pre-eclampsia. This article reviews the current research of the most important strategies for prediction of pre-eclampsia, including the use of maternal risk factors, mean maternal arterial pressure, ultrasound parameters, and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Jin Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul 135-081, Korea.
| | - Sung Shin Shim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul 135-081, Korea.
| | - Dong Hyun Cha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul 135-081, Korea.
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Garcés MF, Vallejo SA, Sanchez E, Palomino-Palomino MA, Leal LG, Ángel-Muller E, Díaz-Cruz LA, Ruíz-Parra AI, González-Clavijo AM, Castaño JP, Abba M, Lacunza E, Diéguez C, Nogueiras R, Caminos JE. Longitudinal analysis of maternal serum Follistatin concentration in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 83:229-35. [PMID: 25565002 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Revised: 11/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Follistatin (FST) is a regulator of the biological activity of activin A (Act A), binding and blocking it, which could contribute to the modulation of its pro-inflammatory activity during pregnancy. We sought to investigate, in this nested case-control study, FST serum levels during normal pregnancy and correlate it with the FST profile in preeclamptic pregnant women, normal pregnant women followed 3 months postpartum and eumenorrheic nonpregnant women throughout the menstrual cycle. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Follistatin serum levels determined by ELISA, biochemical and anthropometric variables were measured in normal pregnant (n = 28) and preeclamptic (n = 20) women during three periods of gestation. In addition, FST serum levels were measured in a subset of normal pregnant women (n = 13) followed 3 months postpartum and in eumenorrheic nonpregnant women (n = 20) during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. RESULTS Follistatin serum levels in the eumenorrheic nonpregnant and postpartum group were significantly lower when compared to levels throughout gestation (P < 0·01). Serum FST levels increased in each period of pregnancy analysed, being significantly higher towards the end of gestation (P < 0·01). FST levels were lower in late pregnancy in preeclamptic women compared to normal pregnant women (P < 0·05). Finally, FST levels were higher in the luteal phase when compared with the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle (P < 0·05). CONCLUSIONS These analyses would permit the consideration that changes in FST levels during pregnancy contribute to the control of the Act A system.
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Affiliation(s)
- María F Garcés
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Sergio A Vallejo
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Elizabeth Sanchez
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Luis G Leal
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Edith Ángel-Muller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luz A Díaz-Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ariel Iván Ruíz-Parra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Justo P Castaño
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Spain
| | - Martin Abba
- CINIBA, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Ezequiel Lacunza
- CINIBA, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Carlos Diéguez
- Department of Physiology (CIMUS), School of Medicine-Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias (IDIS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Spain
| | - Rubén Nogueiras
- Department of Physiology (CIMUS), School of Medicine-Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias (IDIS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Spain
| | - Jorge E Caminos
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
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Stegmann BJ, Santillan M, Leader B, Smith E, Santillan D. Changes in antimüllerian hormone levels in early pregnancy are associated with preterm birth. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:347-55.e3. [PMID: 26074093 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2015] [Revised: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the association of preterm birth with antimüllerian hormone (AMH) levels both in isolation and in combination with other markers of fetoplacental health commonly measured during integrated prenatal screening (IPS) for aneuploidy. DESIGN Retrospective case-control study. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Pregnant women in Iowa who elected to undergo IPS and who subsequently delivered in Iowa, including women giving birth at <37 weeks' gestation and controls who delivered at ≥37 weeks' gestation. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Probability of a preterm birth. RESULT(S) Second trimester AMH levels were not associated with preterm birth, either independently or after controlling for other markers of fetoplacental health. The AMH difference was not associated with preterm birth when modeled alone, but a statistically significant association was found after adjusting for maternal serum α-fetoprotein (MSAFP) and maternal weight change between the first and second trimesters. After stratifying the model by MSAFP level, most of the risk for preterm birth was identified in women with an MSAFP >1 multiple of the median and who had a stable or rising AMH level in early pregnancy. CONCLUSION(S) A lack of decline in the AMH level in early pregnancy can be used to identify women with a high probability for preterm birth, especially when MSAFP levels are >1 multiple of the median. Monitoring changes in the AMH level between the first and second trimesters of pregnancy may help identify women who would benefit from interventional therapies such as supplemental progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Santillan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | | | - Elaine Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Donna Santillan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Kolialexi A, Mavreli D, Tounta G, Mavrou A, Papantoniou N. Urine proteomic studies in preeclampsia. Proteomics Clin Appl 2015; 9:501-6. [PMID: 25644222 DOI: 10.1002/prca.201400092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem disorder of pregnancy that develops after 20 wk of gestation in previously normotensive women and complicates 5-8% of pregnancies. This rapidly progressive syndrome is usually diagnosed when the mother develops hypertension and proteinuria. The only effective treatment is delivery of the baby although early low-dose aspirin has been shown to significantly reduce the risk for PE. Recent advances in proteomic methods of protein separation, identification, and quantitation may allow for the identification of proteins and peptides that could facilitate early detection of disease, improve assessment of prognosis, and allow closer monitoring of women at risk for PE. This review summarizes all currently available markers for prediction and diagnosis of PE and presents urine proteomic studies performed for the identification of novel biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aggeliki Kolialexi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Danai Mavreli
- Department of Medical Genetics, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Tounta
- Department of Medical Genetics, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Ariadni Mavrou
- Department of Medical Genetics, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolas Papantoniou
- 3rd Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
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ACVR2A promoter polymorphism rs1424954 in the Activin-A signaling pathway in trophoblasts. Placenta 2015; 36:345-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Activin and NADPH-oxidase in preeclampsia: insights from in vitro and murine studies. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 212:86.e1-12. [PMID: 25046804 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2014.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinical management of preeclampsia has remained unchanged for almost 5 decades. We now understand that maternal endothelial dysfunction likely arises because of placenta-derived vasoactive factors. Activin A is one such antiangiogenic factor that is released by the placenta and that is elevated in maternal serum in women with preeclampsia. Whether activin has a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia is not known. STUDY DESIGN To assess the effects of activin on endothelial cell function, we cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells in the presence of activin or serum from normal pregnant women or pregnant women with preeclampsia, with or without follistatin, a functional activin antagonist or apocynin, a NADPH oxidase (Nox2) inhibitor. We also administered activin to pregnant C57Bl6 mice, with or without apocynin, and studied maternal and fetal outcomes. Last, we assessed endothelial cell Nox2 and nitric oxide synthase expression in normal pregnant women and pregnant women with preeclampsia. RESULTS Activin and preeclamptic serum induced endothelial cell oxidative stress by Nox2 up-regulation and endothelial cell dysfunction, which are effects that are mitigated by either follistatin or apocynin. The administration of activin to pregnant mice induced endothelial oxidative stress, hypertension, proteinuria, fetal growth restriction, and preterm littering. Apocynin prevented all of these effects. Compared with normal pregnant women, women with preeclampsia had increased endothelial Nox2 expression. CONCLUSION An activin-Nox2 pathway is a likely link between an injured placenta, endothelial dysfunction, and preeclampsia. This offers opportunities that are not novel therapeutic approaches to preeclampsia.
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Müller-Deile J, Schiffer M. Preeclampsia from a renal point of view: Insides into disease models, biomarkers and therapy. World J Nephrol 2014; 3:169-81. [PMID: 25374810 PMCID: PMC4220349 DOI: 10.5527/wjn.v3.i4.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteinuria is a frequently detected symptom, found in 20% of pregnancies. A common reason for proteinuria in pregnancy is preeclampsia. To diagnose preeclampsia clinically and to get new insights into the pathophysiology of the disease it is at first essential to be familiar with conditions in normal pregnancy. Animal models and biomarkers can help to learn more about disease conditions and to find new treatment strategies. In this article we review the changes in kidney function during normal pregnancy and the differential diagnosis of proteinuria in pregnancy. We summarize different pathophysiological theories of preeclampsia with a special focus on the renal facets of the disease. We describe the current animal models and give a broad overview of different biomarkers that were reported to predict preeclampsia or have a prognostic value in preeclampsia cases. We end with a summary of treatment options for preeclampsia related symptoms including the use of plasmapheresis as a rescue therapy for so far refractory preeclampsia. Most of these novel biomarkers for preeclampsia are not yet implemented in clinical use. Therefore, we recommend using proteinuria (measured by UPC ratio) as a screening parameter for preeclampsia. Delivery is the only curative treatment for preeclampsia. In early preeclampsia the primary therapy goal is to prolong pregnancy until a state were the child has an acceptable chance of survival after delivery.
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40
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Plasma cancer biomarker multiplex screening and the risk of subsequent preeclampsia. Int J Cardiol 2014; 179:58-60. [PMID: 25464412 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.10.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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41
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Makanji Y, Zhu J, Mishra R, Holmquist C, Wong WPS, Schwartz NB, Mayo KE, Woodruff TK. Inhibin at 90: from discovery to clinical application, a historical review. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:747-94. [PMID: 25051334 PMCID: PMC4167436 DOI: 10.1210/er.2014-1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
When it was initially discovered in 1923, inhibin was characterized as a hypophysiotropic hormone that acts on pituitary cells to regulate pituitary hormone secretion. Ninety years later, what we know about inhibin stretches far beyond its well-established capacity to inhibit activin signaling and suppress pituitary FSH production. Inhibin is one of the major reproductive hormones involved in the regulation of folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. Although the physiological role of inhibin as an activin antagonist in other organ systems is not as well defined as it is in the pituitary-gonadal axis, inhibin also modulates biological processes in other organs through paracrine, autocrine, and/or endocrine mechanisms. Inhibin and components of its signaling pathway are expressed in many organs. Diagnostically, inhibin is used for prenatal screening of Down syndrome as part of the quadruple test and as a biochemical marker in the assessment of ovarian reserve. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the biological role of inhibin, its relationship with activin, its signaling mechanisms, and its potential value as a diagnostic marker for reproductive function and pregnancy-associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogeshwar Makanji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.M., J.Z., C.H., W.P.S.W., T.K.W.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60610; Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery (R.M., C.H.), Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208; and Department of Molecular Biosciences (N.B.S., K.E.M., T.K.W.), Center for Reproductive Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208
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Fong FM, Sahemey MK, Hamedi G, Eyitayo R, Yates D, Kuan V, Thangaratinam S, Walton RT. Maternal genotype and severe preeclampsia: a HuGE review. Am J Epidemiol 2014; 180:335-45. [PMID: 25028703 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwu151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe preeclampsia is a common cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity worldwide. The disease clusters in families; however, individual genetic studies have produced inconsistent results. We conducted a review to examine relationships between maternal genotype and severe preeclampsia. We searched the MEDLINE and Embase databases for prospective and retrospective cohort and case-control studies reporting associations between genes and severe preeclampsia. Four reviewers independently undertook study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction. We performed random-effects meta-analyses by genotype and predefined functional gene group (thrombophilic, vasoactive, metabolic, immune, and cell signalling). Fifty-seven studies evaluated 50 genotypes in 5,049 cases and 16,989 controls. Meta-analysis showed a higher risk of severe preeclampsia with coagulation factor V gene (proaccelerin, labile factor) (F5) polymorphism rs6025 (odds ratio = 1.90, 95% confidence interval: 1.42, 2.54; 23 studies, I(2) = 29%), coagulation factor II (thrombin) gene (F2) mutation G20210A (rs1799963) (odds ratio = 2.01, 95% confidence interval: 1.14, 3.55, 9 studies, I(2) = 0%), leptin receptor gene (LEPR) polymorphism rs1137100 (odds ratio = 1.75, 95% confidence interval: 1.15, 2.65; 2 studies, I(2) = 0%), and the thrombophilic gene group (odds ratio = 1.87, 95% confidence interval: 1.43, 2.45, I(2) = 27%). There were no associations with other gene groups. There was moderate heterogeneity between studies and potential for bias from poor-quality genotyping and inconsistent definition of phenotype. Further studies with robust methods should investigate genetic factors that might potentially be used to stratify pregnancies according to risk of complications.
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Kar M. Role of biomarkers in early detection of preeclampsia. J Clin Diagn Res 2014; 8:BE01-4. [PMID: 24959436 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2014/7969.4261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related, potentially life threatening condition. The incidence of PE has increased in the past decade, which has been attributed to various predisposing factors. Abnormal placentation is central to the evolution of this disease process. However, the triggering factor for this is still unknown. Interestingly, intense research done in this arena has unveiled the names of some important biomolecules which play important role in the vasculognesis of the early placenta, namely, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF) and their antagonists, namely, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1, also known as sVEGFR1), and soluble endoglin (sEng). Besides these, Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) was also implicated in this disease process. The roles of immune factors, genetic factors have been stressed from time to time. More novel approaches made, have shed light on the upcoming biomolecules. All these endeavours are directed to diagnose PE as early as possible, which is a real challenge. Question remains whether a single set parameters could diagnose a disease entity which is as complex as PE. Therefore, it is imperative to design feasible, predictive test-set utilizing multiple biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Kar
- Associate Professor, Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences , Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Effect of selenium on markers of risk of pre-eclampsia in UK pregnant women: a randomised, controlled pilot trial. Br J Nutr 2014; 112:99-111. [PMID: 24708917 PMCID: PMC4054662 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114514000531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia is a serious hypertensive condition of pregnancy associated with high maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Se intake or status has been linked to the occurrence of pre-eclampsia by our own work and that of others. We hypothesised that a small increase in the Se intake of UK pregnant women of inadequate Se status would protect against the risk of pre-eclampsia, as assessed by biomarkers of pre-eclampsia. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot trial, we randomised 230 primiparous pregnant women to Se (60 μg/d, as Se-enriched yeast) or placebo treatment from 12 to 14 weeks of gestation until delivery. Whole-blood Se concentration was measured at baseline and 35 weeks, and plasma selenoprotein P (SEPP1) concentration at 35 weeks. The primary outcome measure of the present study was serum soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sFlt-1), an anti-angiogenic factor linked with the risk of pre-eclampsia. Other serum/plasma components related to the risk of pre-eclampsia were also measured. Between 12 and 35 weeks, whole-blood Se concentration increased significantly in the Se-treated group but decreased significantly in the placebo group. At 35 weeks, significantly higher concentrations of whole-blood Se and plasma SEPP1 were observed in the Se-treated group than in the placebo group. In line with our hypothesis, the concentration of sFlt-1 was significantly lower at 35 weeks in the Se-treated group than in the placebo group in participants in the lowest quartile of Se status at baseline (P= 0·039). None of the secondary outcome measures was significantly affected by treatment. The present finding that Se supplementation has the potential to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women of low Se status needs to be validated in an adequately powered trial.
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Park HJ, Kim SH, Jung YW, Shim SS, Kim JY, Cho YK, Farina A, Zanello M, Lee KJ, Cha DH. Screening models using multiple markers for early detection of late-onset preeclampsia in low-risk pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2014; 14:35. [PMID: 24444293 PMCID: PMC3944217 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our primary objective was to establish a cutoff value for the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1(sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio measured using the Elecsys assay to predict late-onset preeclampsia in low-risk pregnancies. Our secondary objective was to evaluate the ability of combination models using Elecsys data, second trimester uterine artery (UtA) Doppler ultrasonography measurements, and the serum fetoplacental protein levels used for Down's syndrome screening, to predict preeclampsia. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 262 pregnant women with a low risk of preeclampsia. Plasma levels of pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein, unconjugated estriol, human chorionic gonadotropin, and inhibin-A were measured, and sFlt-1/PlGF ratios were calculated. All women underwent UtA Doppler ultrasonography at 20 to 24 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Eight of the 262 women (3.0%) developed late-onset preeclampsia. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the third trimester sFlt-1/PlGF ratio yielded the best detection rate (DR) for preeclampsia at a fixed false-positive rate (FPR) of 10%, followed by the second trimester sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, sFlt-1 level, and PlGF level. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the five best combination models for early detection of late-onset preeclampsia. The combination of the PAPP-A level and the second trimester sFlt-1/PlGF ratio yielded a DR of 87.5% at a fixed FPR of 5%, the combination of second and third trimester sFlt-1/PlGF ratios yielded a DR of 87.5% at a fixed FPR of 10%, the combination of body mass index and the second trimester sFlt-1 level yielded a DR of 87.5% at a fixed FPR of 10%, the combination of the PAPP-A and inhibin-A levels yielded a DR of 50% at a fixed FPR of 10%, and the combination of the PAPP-A level and the third trimester sFlt-1/PlGF ratio yielded a DR of 62.5% at a fixed FPR of 10%. CONCLUSIONS The combination of the PAPP-A level and the second trimester sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, and the combination of the second trimester sFlt-1 level with body mass index, were better predictors of late-onset preeclampsia than any individual marker.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dong Hyun Cha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Placental trophoblast cell differentiation: Physiological regulation and pathological relevance to preeclampsia. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:981-1023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Revised: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Raghupathy R. Cytokines as key players in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. Med Princ Pract 2013; 22 Suppl 1:8-19. [PMID: 23949305 PMCID: PMC5586811 DOI: 10.1159/000354200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is an important, common, and dangerous complication of pregnancy; it causes maternal and perinatal illness and is responsible for a high proportion of maternal and infant deaths. PE is associated with increased blood pressure and proteinuria, with a whole host of other potentially serious complications in the mother and fetus. The maternal syndrome in PE is primarily that of generalized dysfunction of the maternal endothelium, and this generalized endothelial dysfunction appears to be part of an exaggerated systemic inflammatory response that involves maternal leukocytes and proinflammatory cytokines. This review examines evidence that points to a significant role for the maternal immune system; inadequate trophoblast invasion of spiral arteries initiates ischemia and hypoxia in the placenta, resulting in an increased release of proinflammatory cytokines in the placenta. Placental ischemia and hypoxia also cause the enhanced release of trophoblast microparticles into the maternal circulation which stimulates increased induction of proinflammatory cytokines and the activation of maternal endothelial cells. This activation results in a systemic, diffuse endothelial cell dysfunction which is the fundamental pathophysiological feature of this syndrome. Recent evidence also supports important roles for proinflammatory cytokines in hypertension, proteinuria, and edema which are characteristic features of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Raghupathy
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
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Severi FM, De Bonis M, Vellucci FL, Voltolini C, Bocchi C, Di Tommaso M, Torricelli M, Petraglia F. The obstetric syndromes: clinical relevance of placental hormones. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2013; 8:127-138. [PMID: 30736173 DOI: 10.1586/eem.12.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Preterm delivery, preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction are the major diseases of pregnancy. A key role in their pathogenesis is played by the placenta, which is the source of hormones and other important regulatory molecules providing the metabolic and endocrine homeostasis of the fetal-placental unit. Since obstetric syndromes are characterized by important maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, numerous efforts have been made over the years to prevent and treat them. Due to their complex pathogenesis, however, the therapy is poor and not very effective. Therefore, great emphasis is currently given to the prevention of these diseases through the identification of biochemical and biophysical markers, among which placental factors play a crucial role. The increasing knowledge of the role of placental molecules can indeed lead to the development of new therapeutic and diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiberto Maria Severi
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Maria De Bonis
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Letizia Vellucci
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Voltolini
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Bocchi
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Michela Torricelli
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- c Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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Crosley E, Elliot M, Christians J, Crespi B. Placental invasion, preeclampsia risk and adaptive molecular evolution at the origin of the great apes: Evidence from genome-wide analyses. Placenta 2013; 34:127-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Revised: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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