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Gumina DL, Su EJ. Mechanistic insights into the development of severe fetal growth restriction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:679-695. [PMID: 37186255 PMCID: PMC10241202 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR), which most commonly results from suboptimal placental function, substantially increases risks for adverse perinatal and long-term outcomes. The only "treatment" that exists is delivery, which averts stillbirth but does not improve outcomes in survivors. Furthermore, the potential long-term consequences of FGR to the fetus, including cardiometabolic disorders, predispose these individuals to developing FGR in their future pregnancies. This creates a multi-generational cascade of adverse effects stemming from a single dysfunctional placenta, and understanding the mechanisms underlying placental-mediated FGR is critically important if we are to improve outcomes and overall health. The mechanisms behind FGR remain unknown. However, placental insufficiency derived from maldevelopment of the placental vascular systems is the most common etiology. To highlight important mechanistic interactions within the placenta, we focus on placental vascular development in the setting of FGR. We delve into fetoplacental angiogenesis, a robust and ongoing process in normal pregnancies that is impaired in severe FGR. We review cellular models of FGR, with special attention to fetoplacental angiogenesis, and we highlight novel integrin-extracellular matrix interactions that regulate placental angiogenesis in severe FGR. In total, this review focuses on key developmental processes, with specific focus on the human placenta, an underexplored area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane L Gumina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, CO, U.S.A
| | - Emily J Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, CO, U.S.A
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Placental Structure in Preterm Birth Among HIV-Positive Versus HIV-Negative Women in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 80:94-102. [PMID: 30272633 PMCID: PMC6289800 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Preterm birth (PTB) is a major cause of infant morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Recent data suggest that in addition to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) increases the risk of PTB. As the mechanisms remain unexplored, we conducted this study to determine whether HIV and ART were associated with placental changes that could contribute to PTB. Setting: We collected and evaluated placentas from 38 HIV-positive women on ART and 43 HIV-negative women who had preterm deliveries in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: Anatomical features of the placentas were examined at gross and microscopic levels. Cases were matched for gestational age and compared by the investigators who were blinded to maternal HIV serostatus. Results: Among preterm placentas, HIV infection was significantly associated with thrombosis (P = 0.001), infarction (P = 0.032), anomalies in cord insertion (P = 0.02), gross evidence of membrane infection (P = 0.043), and reduced placental thickness (P = 0.010). Overall, preterm placentas in both groups were associated with immature villi, syncytial knotting, villitis, and deciduitis. Features of HIV-positive versus HIV-negative placentas included significant fibrinoid deposition with villus degeneration, syncytiotrophoblast delamination, red blood cell adhesion, hypervascularity, and reduction in both surface area and perimeter of the terminal villi. Conclusions: These results imply that HIV infection and/or ART are associated with morphological changes in preterm placentas that contribute to delivery before 37 weeks. Hypervascularity suggests that the observed pathologies may be attributable, in part, to hypoxia. Further research to explore potential mechanisms will help elucidate the pathways that are involved perhaps pointing to interventions for decreasing the risk of prematurity among HIV-positive women.
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Lappas M, McCracken S, McKelvey K, Lim R, James J, Roberts CT, Fournier T, Alfaidy N, Powell KL, Borg AJ, Morris JM, Leaw B, Singh H, Ebeling PR, Wallace EM, Parry LJ, Dimitriadis E, Murthi P. Formyl peptide receptor-2 is decreased in foetal growth restriction and contributes to placental dysfunction. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:94-109. [PMID: 29272530 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the association between placental formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2) and trophoblast and endothelial functions in pregnancies affected by foetal growth restriction (FGR)? SUMMARY ANSWER Reduced FPR2 placental expression in idiopathic FGR results in significantly altered trophoblast differentiation and endothelial function in vitro. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FGR is associated with placental insufficiency, where defective trophoblast and endothelial functions contribute to reduced feto-placental growth. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The expression of FPR2 in placental tissues from human pregnancies complicated with FGR was compared to that in gestation-matched uncomplicated control pregnancies (n = 25 from each group). Fpr2 expression was also determined in placental tissues obtained from a murine model of FGR (n = 4). The functional role of FPR2 in primary trophoblasts and endothelial cells in vitro was assessed in diverse assays in a time-dependent manner. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Placentae from third-trimester pregnancies complicated by idiopathic FGR (n = 25) and those from gestation-matched pregnancies with appropriately grown infants as controls (n = 25) were collected at gestation 27-40 weeks. Placental tissues were also collected from a spontaneous CBA/CaH × DBA/2 J murine model of FGR. Placental FPR2/Fpr2 mRNA expression was determined by real-time PCR, while protein expression was examined by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. siRNA transfection was used to silence FPR2 expression in primary trophoblasts and in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), and the quantitation of cytokines, chemokines and apoptosis was performed following a cDNA array analyses. Functional effects of trophoblast differentiation were measured using HCGB/β-hCG and syncytin-2 expression as well as markers of apoptosis, tumour protein 53 (TP53), caspase 8, B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) and BCL associated X (BAX). Endothelial function was assessed by proliferation, network formation and permeability assays. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Placental FPR2/Fpr2 expression was significantly decreased in FGR placentae (n = 25, P < 0.05) as well as in murine FGR placentae compared to controls (n = 4, P < 0.05). FPR2 siRNA (siFPR2) in term trophoblasts significantly increased differentiation markers, HCGB and syncytin-2; cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6, CXCL8; and apoptotic markers, TP53, caspase 8 and BAX, but significantly reduced the expression of the chemokines CXCL12 and its receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7; CXCL16 and its receptor, CXCR6; and cytokine, IL-10, compared with control siRNA (siCONT). Treatment of HUVECs with siFPR2 significantly reduced proliferation and endothelial tube formation, but significantly increased permeability of HUVECs. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Reduced expression of placental FPR2/Fpr2 was observed in the third trimester at delivery after development of FGR, suggesting that FPR2 is associated with FGR pregnancies. However, there is a possibility that the decreased placental FPR2 observed in FGR may be a consequence rather than a cause of FGR, although our in vitro functional analyses using primary trophoblasts and endothelial cells suggest that FPR2 may have a direct or indirect regulatory role on trophoblast differentiation and endothelial function in FGR. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first study linking placental FPR2 expression with changes in the trophoblast and endothelial functions that may explain the placental insufficiency observed in FGR. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS P.M. and P.R.E. received funding from the Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science, Western Health, St. Albans, Victoria 3021, Australia. M.L. is supported by a Career Development Fellowship from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC; Grant no. 1047025). Monash Health is supported by the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Programme. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest in publishing this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Lappas
- Mercy Perinatal Research Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria 3079, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria 3079, Australia
| | - Sharon McCracken
- Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.,Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Kelly McKelvey
- Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.,Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Ratana Lim
- Mercy Perinatal Research Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria 3079, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria 3079, Australia
| | - Joanna James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Claire T Roberts
- Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Thierry Fournier
- INSERM, UMR-S1139, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Paris F-75006, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris F-75006 France.,Fondation PremUp, Paris F-75006, France
| | - Nadia Alfaidy
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 1036, Grenoble, France.,University Grenoble-Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France.,Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique (CEA), iRTSV- Biology of Cancer and Infection, Grenoble, France
| | - Katie L Powell
- Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.,Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Anthony J Borg
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Pregnancy Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Morris
- Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.,Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Bryan Leaw
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Harmeet Singh
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Peter R Ebeling
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Padma Murthi
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Pregnancy Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.,The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
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Li Y, Lorca RA, Su EJ. Molecular and cellular underpinnings of normal and abnormal human placental blood flows. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R9-R22. [PMID: 29097590 PMCID: PMC5732864 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal placental function is well-established as a major cause for poor pregnancy outcome. Placental blood flow within the maternal uteroplacental compartment, the fetoplacental circulation or both is a vital factor in mediating placental function. Impairment in flow in either or both vasculatures is a significant risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome, potentially impacting maternal well-being, affecting immediate neonatal health and even influencing the long-term health of the infant. Much remains unknown regarding the mechanistic underpinnings of proper placental blood flow. This review highlights the currently recognized molecular and cellular mechanisms in the development of normal uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows. Utilizing the entities of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction as clinical phenotypes that are often evident downstream of abnormal placental blood flow, mechanisms underlying impaired uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows are also discussed. Deficiencies in knowledge, which limit the efficacy of clinical care, are also highlighted, underscoring the need for continued research on normal and abnormal placental blood flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ramón A Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily J Su
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Maternal-Fetal Medicine/Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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5
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Kim B, Oh SY, Kim JS. Placental Lesions in Meconium Aspiration Syndrome. J Pathol Transl Med 2017; 51:488-498. [PMID: 28793392 PMCID: PMC5611533 DOI: 10.4132/jptm.2017.07.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is defined by respiratory distress requiring supplemental oxygen in a meconium-stained neonate. MAS is clinically subclassified as mild, moderate, and severe according to the oxygen requirement. The aims of this study were to compare the histological findings in the placentas of MAS neonates with those of meconium-stained but non-MAS neonates and to analyze the correlation between the severity of MAS and the grade of its histological parameters. Methods We collected 160 singleton term placentas from neonates with meconium staining at birth from a tertiary medical center, Seoul, Republic of Korea. We reviewed hematoxylin and eosin sections of tissue samples (full-thickness placental disc, chorioamniotic membranes, and umbilical cord). Results Funisitis was present more frequently in MAS than in non-MAS (p < .01), of which the stage was correlated with the severity of MAS (p < .001). The histological findings consistent with maternal underperfusion and chronic deciduitis were more frequent in MAS than in non-MAS (p < .05). There was a correlation between the degree of chorionic vascular muscle necrosis and the severity of MAS (p < .05). Conclusions Our results suggest that fetal inflammatory response evidenced by funisitis occurs prenatally in MAS and that the stage of funisitis and of chorionic vascular muscle necrosis may be a predictive marker of the severity of MAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binnari Kim
- Department of Pathology and Translational Genomics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo-Young Oh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung-Sun Kim
- Department of Pathology and Translational Genomics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, SAIHST, Seoul, Korea
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6
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Ilekis JV, Tsilou E, Fisher S, Abrahams VM, Soares MJ, Cross JC, Zamudio S, Illsley NP, Myatt L, Colvis C, Costantine MM, Haas DM, Sadovsky Y, Weiner C, Rytting E, Bidwell G. Placental origins of adverse pregnancy outcomes: potential molecular targets: an Executive Workshop Summary of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:S1-S46. [PMID: 26972897 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Although much progress is being made in understanding the molecular pathways in the placenta that are involved in the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related disorders, a significant gap exists in the utilization of this information for the development of new drug therapies to improve pregnancy outcome. On March 5-6, 2015, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health sponsored a 2-day workshop titled Placental Origins of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: Potential Molecular Targets to begin to address this gap. Particular emphasis was given to the identification of important molecular pathways that could serve as drug targets and the advantages and disadvantages of targeting these particular pathways. This article is a summary of the proceedings of that workshop. A broad number of topics were covered that ranged from basic placental biology to clinical trials. This included research in the basic biology of placentation, such as trophoblast migration and spiral artery remodeling, and trophoblast sensing and response to infectious and noninfectious agents. Research findings in these areas will be critical for the formulation of the development of future treatments and the development of therapies for the prevention of a number of pregnancy disorders of placental origin that include preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and uterine inflammation. Research was also presented that summarized ongoing clinical efforts in the United States and in Europe that has tested novel interventions for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction, including agents such as oral arginine supplementation, sildenafil, pravastatin, gene therapy with virally delivered vascular endothelial growth factor, and oxygen supplementation therapy. Strategies were also proposed to improve fetal growth by the enhancement of nutrient transport to the fetus by modulation of their placental transporters and the targeting of placental mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress to improve placental health. The roles of microRNAs and placental-derived exosomes, as well as messenger RNAs, were also discussed in the context of their use for diagnostics and as drug targets. The workshop discussed the aspect of safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of potential existing and new therapeutics that will need to be determined, especially in the context of the unique pharmacokinetic properties of pregnancy and the hurdles and pitfalls of the translation of research findings into practice. The workshop also discussed novel methods of drug delivery and targeting during pregnancy with the use of macromolecular carriers, such as nanoparticles and biopolymers, to minimize placental drug transfer and hence fetal drug exposure. In closing, a major theme that developed from the workshop was that the scientific community must change their thinking of the pregnant woman and her fetus as a vulnerable patient population for which drug development should be avoided, but rather be thought of as a deprived population in need of more effective therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- John V Ilekis
- Pregnancy and Perinatology Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Ekaterini Tsilou
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Susan Fisher
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Vikki M Abrahams
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
| | - Michael J Soares
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - James C Cross
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary Health Sciences Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stacy Zamudio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ
| | - Nicholas P Illsley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ
| | - Leslie Myatt
- Center for Pregnancy and Newborn Research, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
| | - Christine Colvis
- Therapeutics Discovery Program, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Maged M Costantine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - David M Haas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | - Carl Weiner
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Erik Rytting
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Gene Bidwell
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
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7
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Fetoplacental vascular alterations associated with fetal growth restriction. Placenta 2014; 35:808-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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8
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Increased collagen deposition in the heart of chronically hypoxic ovine fetuses. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2014; 4:470-8. [PMID: 24924226 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174413000299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
This study determined the effect of chronic intrauterine hypoxia on collagen deposition in the fetal sheep heart. Moderate or severe hypoxia was induced by placental embolization in chronically catheterized fetal sheep for 15 days starting at gestational day 116 ± 2 (term ∼147 days). The fetal right and left ventricle were evaluated for collagen content using a Sirius red dye and for changes in signaling components of pathways involved in collagen synthesis and remodeling using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. In severely hypoxic fetuses (n = 6), there was a two-fold increase (P < 0.05) in the percentage staining for collagen in the right ventricle, compared with control (n = 6), whereas collagen content was not altered in the moderate group (n = 4). Procollagen I and III mRNA levels were increased in the right ventricle, two-fold (P < 0.05) and three-fold (P < 0.05), respectively, in the severe group relative to control. These changes were paralleled by a two-fold increase (P < 0.05) in mRNA levels of the pro-fibrotic cytokine, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β1), in the right ventricle. In the right ventricle, the mRNA levels of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and its activator, membrane-type MMP (MTI-MMP) were increased five-fold (P = 0.06) and three-fold (P < 0.05), respectively, relative to control. Protein levels of TGF-β were increased in the left ventricle (P < 0.05). Thus, up-regulated collagen synthesis leading to increased collagen content occurs in the chronically hypoxic fetal heart and may contribute to the right ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction reported in human intrauterine growth restriction fetuses.
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9
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Mifsud W, Sebire NJ. Placental Pathology in Early-Onset and Late-Onset Fetal Growth Restriction. Fetal Diagn Ther 2014; 36:117-28. [DOI: 10.1159/000359969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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10
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George EM, Granger JP. Recent insights into the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 5:557-566. [PMID: 21170149 DOI: 10.1586/eog.10.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia, characterized by new-onset gestational hypertension and proteinuria, is a common and serious complication of pregnancy. Evidence from both animal and human studies has implicated placental ischemia and hypoxia as a central causative factor in the etiology of the disorder. The ischemic placenta in turn initiates a cascade of secondary effector mechanisms, including altered proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factor balance, increase in maternal oxidative stress and endothelial and immunological dysfunction. The full elucidation of these mechanisms will hopefully lead to a more complete understanding of the etiology of preeclampsia and lead to successful therapeutic intervention through the targeted disruption of new and novel pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M George
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular-Renal Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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11
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Structural analysis of human placental stem and terminal villi from normal and idiopathic growth restricted pregnancies. J Mol Histol 2012; 43:263-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s10735-012-9405-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 03/11/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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12
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New score by color Doppler ultrasound indicating placental vascular resistance and pregnancy outcome in high-risk pregnancy. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrnm.2011.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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13
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Abstract
Doppler evaluation of the placenta and fetal cardiovascular system is one of the primary surveillance tools in prenatal medicine. By assessing uterine and umbilical arteries, placental development can be documented. This is useful for the prediction of hypertensive maternal disorders and placental dysfunction and fetal growth failure. The umbilical artery flow velocity waveform provides an estimate of villous vascular occlusion in the fetal compartment of the placenta. Middle cerebral artery Doppler is important in studying fetal responses to abnormal oxygenation and fetal anemia. Precordial venous Doppler gives insight into the cardiac effects of many conditions such as fetal growth restriction, twin-twin transfusion syndrome and fetal arrhythmia. Further quantification of these effects requires cardiac Doppler to quantify diastolic and systolic function as well as global myocardial performance. This article reviews important characteristics of arterial and venous Doppler waveform analysis, individual vascular beds and their clinical application in fetal evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet A Baschat
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22 S. Greene Street, Room N6E12, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Abstract
No individual can claim credit for all the advances made during his lifetime. However, certain individuals have a far greater influence than others. Prof. Christopher Redman has had a huge role to play in increasing the understanding of the aetiology, pathology, progression and management of preeclampsia. The work he did personally, led in others and stimulated in colleagues, both friend and foe, has helped to progress preeclampsia from a disease that came from nowhere to one that is more understood and safely managed. In this paper, it is the work in immunology that will be concentrated on in a chronological way but this will be linked to other relevant research and clinical practice. The understanding that preeclampsia is a two-stage disease starting in the placenta and progressing systemically has led to greater understanding as well as more questions. The universal role of immunology first as an acceptor within the placental bed then as a disease driver in the systemic circulation emphasises the good and the bad in physiological systems. Prof. Redman has been present in all these areas of discovery and enlightenment as will be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Walker
- Perinatal Research Group, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, United Kingdom
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15
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Yin TT, Loughna P, Ong SS, Padfield J, Mayhew TM. No correlation between ultrasound placental grading at 31-34 weeks of gestation and a surrogate estimate of organ function at term obtained by stereological analysis. Placenta 2009; 30:726-30. [PMID: 19523684 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2008] [Revised: 04/28/2009] [Accepted: 05/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We test the experimental hypothesis that early changes in the ultrasound appearance of the placenta reflect poor or reduced placental function. The sonographic (Grannum) grade of placental maturity was compared to placental function as expressed by the morphometric oxygen diffusive conductance of the villous membrane. Ultrasonography was used to assess the Grannum grade of 32 placentas at 31-34 weeks of gestation. Indications for the scans included a history of previous fetal abnormalities, previous fetal growth problems or suspicion of IUGR. Placentas were classified from grade 0 (most immature) to grade III (most mature). We did not exclude smokers or complicated pregnancies as we aimed to correlate the early appearance of mature placentas with placental function. After delivery, microscopical fields on formalin-fixed, trichrome-stained histological sections of each placenta were obtained by multistage systematic uniform random sampling. Using design-based stereological methods, the exchange surface areas of peripheral (terminal and intermediate) villi and their fetal capillaries and the arithmetic and harmonic mean thicknesses of the villous membrane (maternal surface of villous trophoblast to adluminal surface of vascular endothelium) were estimated. An index of the variability in thickness of this membrane, and an estimate of its oxygen diffusive conductance, were derived secondarily as were estimates of the mean diameters and total lengths of villi and fetal capillaries. Group comparisons were drawn using analysis of variance. We found no significant differences in placental volume or composition or in the dimensions or diffusive conductances of the villous membrane. Subsequent exclusion of smokers did not alter these main findings. Grannum grades at 31-34 weeks of gestation appear not to provide reliable predictors of the functional capacity of the term placenta as expressed by the surrogate measure, morphometric diffusive conductance.
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Affiliation(s)
- T T Yin
- Academic Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, City Campus, Nottingham NG5 1PB, UK.
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Barry JS, Rozance PJ, Anthony RV. An animal model of placental insufficiency-induced intrauterine growth restriction. Semin Perinatol 2008; 32:225-30. [PMID: 18482626 DOI: 10.1053/j.semperi.2007.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), often associated with functional placental insufficiency, results in increased perinatal mortality and morbidity. For obvious reasons, many questions regarding the progression of IUGR pregnancies cannot be addressed experimentally in humans, predicating the use of animal models. Although no animal model fully recapitulates human pregnancy, the pregnant sheep has been used extensively to investigate maternal-fetal interactions. In sheep, surgical placement of catheters in both the maternal and fetal vasculature allows repeated sampling from nonanesthetized pregnancies. Considerable insight has been gained on placental oxygen and nutrient transfer and utilization from use of pregnant sheep, often confirmed in the human once appropriate technologies became available. This review will focus on one sheep model, used to examine the impact of placental insufficiency-induced IUGR on oxygen and nutrient transport and utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S Barry
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Todros T, Marzioni D, Lorenzi T, Piccoli E, Capparuccia L, Perugini V, Cardaropoli S, Romagnoli R, Gesuita R, Rolfo A, Paulesu L, Castellucci M. Evidence for a role of TGF-beta1 in the expression and regulation of alpha-SMA in fetal growth restricted placentae. Placenta 2007; 28:1123-32. [PMID: 17664003 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2007.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2006] [Revised: 05/29/2007] [Accepted: 06/08/2007] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
There is evidence that alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) is a protein that plays a pivotal role in the production of contractile forces and it is induced by transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1). We have analysed the expression of alpha-SMA, TGF-beta1, its receptor RI and the activator phospho-Smad2 in (a) fetal growth restriction pre-eclamptic placentae characterised by early onset and absence of end diastolic velocities in the umbilical arteries (FGR-AED) and (b) control placentae accurately matched for gestational age. The study was performed by immunohistochemical, quantitative Western blotting, ELISA, RT-PCR and in vitro analyses. We found that TGF-beta1 stimulates alpha-SMA production in chorionic villi cultured in vitro. In addition, we observed that in vivo TGF-beta1 concentration is significantly higher in FGR-AED placental samples than in control placentae and that this growth factor could have a paracrine action on villous stroma myofibroblasts expressing TGF-beta1 receptors and phospho-Smad2. Indeed, we report that alpha-SMA undergoes a redistribution in FGR-AED placental villous tree, i.e. we show that alpha-SMA is enhanced in medium and small stem villi and significantly decreased in the peripheral villi. Our data allow us to consider TGF-beta1 and alpha-SMA as key molecules related to FGR-AED placental villous tree phenotypic changes responsible for increased impedance to blood flow observable in this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Todros
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
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Rennie MY, Whiteley KJ, Kulandavelu S, Adamson SL, Sled JG. 3D visualisation and quantification by microcomputed tomography of late gestational changes in the arterial and venous feto-placental vasculature of the mouse. Placenta 2007; 28:833-40. [PMID: 17324457 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2006.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2006] [Revised: 11/24/2006] [Accepted: 12/18/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) as a method to obtain quantitative three-dimensional (3D) information on the arterial and venous vasculature of the mouse placenta. Surface renderings at embryonic days (E) 13.5, 15.5, and 18.5 (full term) revealed that the arterial and venous vasculature branched within the chorionic plate whereas only the arterial vasculature deeply penetrated the placenta. Umbilical vessel diameters measured by micro-CT did not significantly differ from those measured non-invasively in vivo by ultrasound biomicroscopy. Variability in umbilical diameters, and surface area and volume measurements of arterial and venous vascular trees due to experimental error was low relative to biological variability, and significant inter-litter differences within gestational ages were detected. Furthermore, umbilical vessel diameter increased significantly and incrementally to an arterial diameter of 0.631+/-0.009 mm and a venous diameter of 0.690+/-0.018 mm at E18.5. Umbilical vein diameter was 3-9% greater than the artery, and both were significantly correlated with embryonic body weight (R> or =0.96). Surface area and volume were determined for vessels greater than the minimum resolvable diameter of 0.03 mm which therefore excluded capillaries. Arterial surface area and volume were unchanged from E13.5-15.5 but then more than doubled at E18.5 (to 170+/-13 mm(2) and 7.2+/-0.8mm(3), respectively). Venous surface areas and volumes changed similarly with development although surface areas were lower than their arterial counterparts. We conclude that micro-CT has sufficient accuracy and precision to quantify late gestational changes in the 3D structure of the arterial and venous vasculature of the mouse placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Y Rennie
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto and the Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
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Peker T, Omeroglu S, Hamdemir S, Celik H, Tatar I, Aksakal N, Turgut HB. Three-dimensional assessment of the morphology of the umbilical artery in normal and pre-eclamptic placentas. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2006; 32:468-74. [PMID: 16984513 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2006.00433.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Pre-eclampsia is one of the main causes of intrauterine growth retardation. Although there are many studies performed in this setting showing the course of the umbilical vessels within the umbilical cord along with its structural changes, studies are lacking with regard to intraplacental vasculature and its structural changes. METHODS We investigated whether the vascular pattern differed in preeclamptic placentas in terms of intraplacental course and morphometry of the umbilical artery by using vascular corrosion cast technique. Furthermore, cross-sections taken from umbilical artery branches at different levels within the placenta, were examined with both light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS Vascular corrosion casts generated in both pregnancy groups should be defined with the main umbilical artery divided into 2-4 primary branches. No significant difference was seen between normal and pre-eclamptic groups regarding the diameters of primary and secondary branches and the number of cotyledons contained (P > 0.05). However, microscopic studies demonstrated expanded intervillous spaces in the placentas of pre-eclamptic pregnancies. Under SEM, distortion on the endothelial surface of the umbilical artery and an increase in vessel diameter and wall thickness have been determined in pre-eclamptic placentas. Furthermore, the branching pattern and changes affecting the endothelial surface of the umbilical artery have been shown three-dimensionally in pre-eclamptic placentas, using corrosion cast technique and SEM, respectively. CONCLUSION While microscopic findings were consistent with the Doppler ultrasonography findings, namely higher systole/diastole ratio and increased resistance (RI) and pulsatile (PI) index in the umbilical artery, no clear morphometric change has been observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuncay Peker
- Department of Anatomy, Gazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Besevler, Turkey.
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Chaddha V, Viero S, Huppertz B, Kingdom J. Developmental biology of the placenta and the origins of placental insufficiency. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2004; 9:357-69. [PMID: 15691771 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2004.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Defects in all the trophoblast-differentiating pathways--endovascular, interstitial and chorionic villous--play a role in the pathogenesis of early-onset intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR). There are two types of extravillous trophoblast: endovascular trophoblast, that forms the definitive placenta by occlusion of the spiral arteriole at the implantation site, and interstitial extravillous trophoblast, responsible for the anatomical erosion of the distal spiral arteriole and the secretion of angiogenic and vasodilator signals to improve uterine blood flow. Defective endovascular erosion may render the basal plate inadequate to meet the demands of the fetus. Failed interstitial invasion of spiral arterioles could lead to failure of local angiogenic and systemic cardiovascular adaptation signals that could be the underlying basis for early-onset IUGR and pre-eclampsia. As debate persists regarding the relative importance of cord, stem and terminal villous pathology, the study of factors controlling trophoblast turnover from immature intermediate villi to conductance stem villi and gas-exchanging terminal villi, translation of our knowledge from mouse placental genetics into human placental development, and defining causes of thrombo-occlusive damage to the placenta would help our understanding of the pathophysiology of early-onset IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandana Chaddha
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (Maternal-Fetal Medicine), Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, Canada M5G 1X5
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Mayhew TM, Charnock-Jones DS, Kaufmann P. Aspects of human fetoplacental vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. III. Changes in complicated pregnancies. Placenta 2004; 25:127-39. [PMID: 14972445 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2003.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2003] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Patterns of fetoplacental angiogenesis vary not only during the course of a normal pregnancy but also in certain pregnancy pathologies. Here, we review some of the molecular and morphological events which occur in complicated pregnancies. The pregnancy complications are chosen in an attempt to represent the possible different origins (preplacental, uteroplacental, postplacental) of fetal hypoxia. Molecular events focus on reported changes in hypoxia-inducible factors, angiopoietins and the vascular endothelial, basic fibroblast and placenta growth factors and their receptors. Morphological changes focus on patterns of angiogenesis (branching and non-branching) and a consistent set of morphometric descriptors (covering measures of total capillary growth, villous capillarization and capillary size and shape in transverse section). Apart from some uncertainties due to lack of information, or failure to resolve fully the effects of intrauterine growth restriction and pre-eclampsia, alterations in the angiogenic growth factors and morphologies of capillaries and villi in different complicated pregnancies seem to conform reasonably well to those predicted by the fetal hypoxia paradigm. However, it is clear that future studies on the effects of different origins of fetal hypoxia should exercise more care in the choice and interpretation of relevant descriptors and take more account of the parallel effects of possible confounders. In addition, rather than comparing uncomplicated and complicated pregnancies only at term, more information about molecular and morphological events that occur throughout gestation would be extremely valuable. This includes further studies on changes in growth factor receptors, the less-well-documented angiogenic factors (e.g. angiogenin, angiostatin, endostatin) and the associations between endothelial cells and pericytes. A more integrated approach involving also parallel analysis of the effects of erythropoietin and other potential vasoactive factors on the behaviour and morphology of fetal vessels would be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Mayhew
- Centre for Integrated Systems Biology and Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, E Floor, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
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Redline RW, Boyd T, Campbell V, Hyde S, Kaplan C, Khong TY, Prashner HR, Waters BL. Maternal vascular underperfusion: nosology and reproducibility of placental reaction patterns. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2004; 7:237-49. [PMID: 15022063 DOI: 10.1007/s10024-003-8083-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 261] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2003] [Accepted: 12/11/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Placental examination can be a useful tool for specifying the etiology, prognosis, and recurrence risk of pregnancy disorders. The purpose of this study was to test the reliability of a predetermined set of placental reaction patterns seen with maternal vascular underperfusion in the hope that this might provide a useful diagnostic framework for practicing pathologists. Study cases (14 with clinical and pathologic evidence of maternal underperfusion plus 6 controls) were evaluated for the presence or absence of 11 lesions by eight perinatal pathologists. After analysis of initial results, diagnostic criteria were refined and a second, overlapping set of cases was reviewed. The collective sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency of individual assessments for the 11 lesions relative to the group consensus ranged from 74-93% (22/33 > 90%). Reproducibility was measured by unweighted kappa-values and interpreted as follows: < 0.2 poor, 0.2-0.6 fair/moderate, > 0.6 substantial. Kappa values for lesions affecting villi and the intervillous space were increased syncytial knots (any -0.42, severe -0.50), villous agglutination (0.42), increased intervillous fibrin (0.25), and distal villous hypoplasia (0.57). Individual estimates of percent involvement for syncytial knots, intervillous fibrin, and distal villous hypoplasia were correlated with placental and fetal weight for gestational age. Extent of increased intervillous fibrin showed the strongest correlation with both placental weight ( R = -0.64) and fetal weight ( R = -0.45). Kappa values for lesions affecting maternal vessels and the implantation site were acute atherosis (0.50), mural hypertrophy of membrane arterioles (0.43), muscularized basal plate arteries (0.48), increased placental site giant cells (0.54), and immature intermediate trophoblast (0.36). Correlation of maternal vessel and implantation site lesions with the clinical diagnosis of preeclampsia showed that excessive placental site giant cells and immature intermediate trophoblast were more sensitive and efficient predictors, whereas atherosis and muscularized basal plate arteries were more specific. Kappa value for a thin umbilical cord, a possible indicator of fetal volume depletion, was 0.61. Reproducibility for a global impression of maternal vascular underperfusion, taking into account all of the above lesions, was moderate (kappa 0.54) and improved after inclusion of additional pathologic and clinical data (kappa 0.68). Adoption of this clearly defined, clinically relevant, and pathologically reproducible terminology could enhance clinicopathologic correlation and provide a more objective framework for future clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond W Redline
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals of Cleveland and Case Western Reserve University, 1100 Euclid Avenue, 44106, USA.
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Regnault TRH, de Vrijer B, Galan HL, Davidsen ML, Trembler KA, Battaglia FC, Wilkening RB, Anthony RV. The relationship between transplacental O2 diffusion and placental expression of PlGF, VEGF and their receptors in a placental insufficiency model of fetal growth restriction. J Physiol 2003; 550:641-56. [PMID: 12740423 PMCID: PMC2343042 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2003.039511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are involved in placental angiogenesis through interactions with the VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 receptors. The placenta of pregnancies whose outcome is fetal growth restriction (FGR) are characterized by abnormal angiogenic development, classically associated with hypoxia. The present study evaluated the near-term expression of this growth factor family in an ovine model of placental insufficiency-FGR, in relationship to uteroplacental oxygenation. Compared to controls, FGR pregnancies demonstrated a 37% increase in uterine blood flow (FGR vs. control, 610.86+/-48.48 vs. 443.17+/-37.39 ml min(-1) (kg fetus)(-1); P<0.04), which was associated with an increased maternal uterine venous PO2 (58.13+/-1.00 vs. 52.89+/-1.26 mmHg; P<0.02), increased umbilical artery systolic/diastolic ratio (3.90+/-0.33 vs. 2.12+/-0.26, P<0.05), and fetal hypoxia (arterial PO2; 12.79+/-0.97 vs. 18.65+/-1.6 mmHg, P<0.005). Maternal caruncle PlGF mRNA was increased in FGR (P<0.02), while fetal cotyledon VEGF mRNA was reduced (P<0.02). VEGFR-1 mRNA was also reduced in FGR fetal cotyledon (P<0.001) but was not altered in caruncle tissue. Immunoblot analysis of PlGF and VEGF demonstrated single bands at 19,000 and 18,600 Mr, respectively. Caruncle PlGF concentration was increased (P<0.04), while cotyledon VEGF was decreased (P<0.05) in FGR placentae. The data establish that uterine blood flow is not reduced in relationship to metabolic demands in this FGR model and that the transplacental PO2 gradient is increased, maintaining umbilical oxygen uptake per unit of tissue. Furthermore, these data suggest that an increased transplacental gradient of oxygen generates changes in angiogenic growth factors, which may underline the pathophysiology of the post-placental hypoxic FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R H Regnault
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Perinatal Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, CO 80010, USA.
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Sebire NJ. Umbilical artery Doppler revisited: pathophysiology of changes in intrauterine growth restriction revealed. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2003; 21:419-422. [PMID: 12768548 DOI: 10.1002/uog.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
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Interactions between Trophoblast Cells and the Maternal and Fetal Circulation in the Mouse Placenta. Dev Biol 2002. [DOI: 10.1006/dbio.2002.0773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 407] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Chen CP, Bajoria R, Aplin JD. Decreased vascularization and cell proliferation in placentas of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses with abnormal umbilical artery flow velocity waveforms. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002; 187:764-9. [PMID: 12237661 DOI: 10.1067/mob.2002.125243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare the morphologic features of placentas in severe intrauterine fetal growth restriction with abnormal umbilical artery blood flow velocity waveforms and normal gestation. STUDY DESIGN Immunohistochemical methods were used to evaluate cell proliferation, vascular density, and alpha-smooth muscle actin expression by stromal cells in a group of 9 age-matched intrauterine growth-restricted and control placentas at 25 to 41 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Fewer MIB1-positive nuclei were observed in both trophoblast and stromal cell populations in intrauterine growth restriction, which indicates fewer cells in cycle. Furthermore, a greatly reduced vascular density was observed, along with higher levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin expression in stromal cells. CONCLUSION Intrauterine growth-restricted placentas show reduced cell proliferation in both trophoblast and stromal cell compartments. Peripheral villous vascularization is highly reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chie-Pein Chen
- Division of High Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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27
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Abstract
The pathologic investigation of stillbirth is often frustrating, and may be viewed as unrewarding, because the reason for death of the infant frequently is not identifiable. This outline attempts to identify an approach to the examination of the stillborn and accompanying placenta, with appropriate use of ancillary studies that may uncover the cause of death and/or identify factors that could prejudice future pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J F Magee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Kingdom J, Huppertz B, Seaward G, Kaufmann P. Development of the placental villous tree and its consequences for fetal growth. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2000; 92:35-43. [PMID: 10986432 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-2115(00)00423-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 374] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Co-ordinated development of the fetal villous tree of the placenta is necessary for continued fetal growth and well-being. Before fetal viability, blood vessel development within the developing immature intermediate villi (IIV) is characterized by branching angiogenesis, such that the placenta expands to produce 10-16 generations of stem villi. Once fetal viability is attained, a developmental switch occurs to form large numbers of gas-exchanging terminal villi (TV) by non-branching angiogenesis in mature intermediate villi (MIV). Several growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placenta growth factor (PlGF), angiopoietins, and angiostatins are produced within the villi and act locally, via their receptors, to control angiogenesis. Their relative contributions to placental vascular development are not fully understood at the present time. Severe early-onset intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is characterized by absent/reversed end-diastolic flow velocity (ARED) in the umbilical arteries, leading to fetal hypoxia, acidosis and a substantial rise in perinatal mortality and morbidity. The placentas from such cases show a deficit in peripheral villous development, which may be perpetuated by the effects of oxygen (delivered by maternal blood into the intervillous space) upon VEGF-directed angiogenesis, the so-called 'placental hyperoxia' theory of villous maldevelopment. Trophoblast apoptosis is a significant feature of early-onset IUGR and may explain poor flow-independent transfer of nutrients to the fetus. Finally, since transgenic mouse studies highlight the importance of trophoblast-derived transcription factors for placental villous (labyrinth) development, it is possible that the villous trophoblast controls the orderly development of the underlying mesoderm and blood vessels into the fetal villi.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, 600 University Avenue, Ont., M5G 1X5, Toronto, Canada.
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Challis DE, Pfarrer CD, Ritchie JW, Koren G, Adamson SL. Glucose metabolism is elevated and vascular resistance and maternofetal transfer is normal in perfused placental cotyledons from severely growth-restricted fetuses. Pediatr Res 2000; 47:309-15. [PMID: 10709728 DOI: 10.1203/00006450-200003000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We hypothesized that placental resistance was elevated and transfer reduced in cotyledons from intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetuses. We perfused 10 cotyledons from term, normally grown fetuses, six from preterm, normally grown fetuses with normal umbilical arterial end-diastolic velocities (EDV), and six from preterm IUGR fetuses (<3rd centile) with absent or reversed umbilical arterial EDV. Perfused cotyledons were pressure-fixed, and villi were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The groups did not differ in fetoplacental resistance at baseline; neither did they differ in the change in resistance that followed the administration of nitroglycerin or angiotensin II. The increase in resistance during hypoxia was similar in the two preterm groups but greater in the term than in the preterm normally grown group (p < 0.05). Groups did not differ in net maternofetal transfer of oxygen or glucose, or in clearance of aminoisobutyric acid or antipyrine. However, glucose consumption was doubled in cotyledons of preterm IUGR versus preterm normally grown fetuses (p < 0.05). Terminal villi of perfused cotyledons from preterm IUGR fetuses displayed less terminal villous branching and budding than preterm controls, as anticipated from previous work. IUGR fetuses with absent or reversed umbilical arterial EDV in vivo may have high placental resistance due to a vasoconstrictive rather than anatomic abnormality and an elevated placental glucose consumption that may impair glucose transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- D E Challis
- Department of Obstretrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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30
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Umbilical Doppler Waveforms and Placental Villous Angiogenesis in Pregnancies Complicated by Fetal Growth Restriction. Obstet Gynecol 1999. [DOI: 10.1097/00006250-199904000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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31
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Hitschold TP. Doppler flow velocity waveforms of the umbilical arteries correlate with intravillous blood volume. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998; 179:540-3. [PMID: 9731866 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9378(98)70392-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE My purpose was to measure the volume of the fetoplacental vessel tree and to relate findings to Doppler flow patterns of the umbilical arteries. STUDY DESIGN One hundred sixty placentas were examined by means of standardized random block placental histomorphometry after delivery and the results were compared with antenatal Doppler findings. RESULTS There was a high correlation (r = -0.703) between the intravillous blood volume obtained from measurements of intermediate and terminal villi and the Doppler flow velocity waveforms detected within the last week before delivery. Moreover, the reduced size of a vessel tree less than 85 mL is highly predictive of perinatal complications, such as fetal growth restriction, low umbilical artery pH values after birth, reduced Apgar scores, and cesarean section for fetal distress. CONCLUSION These data suggest that reduced end-diastolic flow velocities in the umbilical arteries are associated with elevated fetoplacental impedance owing to reduced vascularization of intermediate and terminal villi.
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Affiliation(s)
- T P Hitschold
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, HSK Clinics, Wiesbaden, Germany
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Kingdom J. Adriana and Luisa Castellucci Award Lecture 1997. Placental pathology in obstetrics: adaptation or failure of the villous tree? Placenta 1998; 19:347-51. [PMID: 9699954 DOI: 10.1016/s0143-4004(98)90073-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Kosanke G, Kadyrov M, Korr H, Kaufmann P. Maternal anemia results in increased proliferation in human placental villi. Placenta 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0143-4004(98)80024-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Kingdom JC, Rodeck CH, Kaufmann P. Umbilical artery Doppler--more harm than good? BRITISH JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY 1997; 104:393-6. [PMID: 9141572 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1997.tb11487.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J C Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Medical School
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Kingdom JC, Macara L, Krebs C, Leiser R, Kaufmann P. Pathological basis for abnormal umbilical artery doppler waveforms in pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction. Placenta 1997. [DOI: 10.1016/s0143-4004(97)80095-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Kingdom J. The relation between serum markers in the second trimester and placental pathology. A study on extremely small for gestational age fetuses. BRITISH JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY 1997; 104:119. [PMID: 8988711 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1997.tb10663.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Krebs C, Macara LM, Leiser R, Bowman AW, Greer IA, Kingdom JC. Intrauterine growth restriction with absent end-diastolic flow velocity in the umbilical artery is associated with maldevelopment of the placental terminal villous tree. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1996; 175:1534-42. [PMID: 8987938 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9378(96)70103-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to evaluate the structure of placental terminal villi and their capillaries in pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction with absent end-diastolic flow velocity in the umbilical artery. STUDY DESIGN Glutaraldehyde-perfusion-fixed villous tissue and a plastic cast of the vessels in at least two cotyledons were prepared from 10 cases with intrauterine growth restriction and 9 gestational age-matched control placentas. The structure and dimensions of 20 terminal capillary loops per cast were determined by scanning electron microscopic examination, and their appearances were correlated with the peripheral villi of the perfusion-fixed villous tissue. RESULTS Capillary loops in the growth-restricted cases were sparse in number and significantly longer than in the control cases (218 microns [72] vs 137 microns [30], mean and SD, p < 0.05). They exhibited fewer branches (4.0 [1.9] per loop vs 6.1 [2.2], p < 0.05) and a majority of loops were uncoiled (79% vs 18%, p < 0.05). The villous tissues from the growth-restricted cases demonstrated elongated villi, consistent with the cast findings. The trophoblast surface was wrinkled and in some areas covered by fibrin plaques. CONCLUSIONS The terminal villous compartment of the placenta appears to be maldeveloped in preterm intrauterine growth restriction pregnancies where absent end-diastolic flow velocity is demonstrated in the umbilical artery before delivery. These findings are consistent with an increase in fetoplacental vascular impedance at the capillary level and may account for the impaired gas and nutrient transfer in this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Krebs
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
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Kingdom J, Kaufmann P. Authors' Reply. BJOG 1996. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1996.tb09787.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Trudinger BJ, Giles WB. Elaboration of stem villous vessels in growth restricted pregnancies with abnormal umbilical artery Doppler waveforms. BRITISH JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY 1996; 103:487-9. [PMID: 8624331 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1996.tb09786.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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