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Moronge D, Ayulo V, Elgazzaz M, Mellott E, Ogbi S, Faulkner JL. Both endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor expression and hyperleptinemia are required for clinical characteristics of placental ischemia in mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 327:H118-H130. [PMID: 38758130 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00188.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
One of the initiating events in preeclampsia (PE) is placental ischemia. Rodent models of placental ischemia do not present with vascular endothelial dysfunction, a hallmark of PE. We previously demonstrated a role for leptin in endothelial dysfunction in pregnancy in the absence of placental ischemia. We hypothesized that placental ischemia requires hyperleptinemia and endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor (ECMR) expression to induce PE-associated endothelial dysfunction in pregnant mice. We induced placental ischemia via the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) procedure in pregnant ECMR-intact (ECMR+/+) and ECMR deletion (ECMR-/-) mice at gestational day (GD) 13. ECMR+/+ RUPP pregnant mice also received concurrent leptin infusion via miniosmotic pump (0.9 mg/kg/day). RUPP increased blood pressure via radiotelemetry and decreased fetal growth in ECMR+/+ pregnant mice. Both increases in blood pressure and reduced fetal growth were abolished in RUPP ECMR-/- mice. Placental ischemia did not decrease endothelial-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine (ACh) but increased phenylephrine (Phe) contraction in mesenteric arteries of pregnant mice, which was ablated by ECMR deletion. Addition of leptin to RUPP mice significantly reduced ACh relaxation in ECMR+/+ pregnant mice, accompanied by an increase in soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PLGF) ratio. In conclusion, our data indicate that high leptin levels drive endothelial dysfunction in PE and that ECMR is required for clinical characteristics of hypertension and fetal growth restriction in placental ischemia PE. Collectively, we show that both ECMR and leptin play a role to mediate PE.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Leptin is a key feature of preeclampsia that initiates vascular endothelial dysfunction in preeclampsia characterized by placental ischemia. Endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor (ECMR) deletion in placental ischemia protects pregnant mice from elevations in blood pressure and fetal growth restriction in pregnancy. Increases in leptin production mediate the key pathological feature of endothelial dysfunction in preeclampsia in rodents. ECMR activation contributes to the increase in blood pressure and fetal growth restriction in preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Moronge
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Victor Ayulo
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Mona Elgazzaz
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
- Genetics Unit, Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Elisabeth Mellott
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Safia Ogbi
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Jessica L Faulkner
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
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2
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van Kammen CM, Taal SEL, Wever KE, Granger JP, Lely AT, Terstappen F. Reduced uterine perfusion pressure as a model for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction in murine: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 327:H89-H107. [PMID: 38758122 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00056.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) model is frequently used to study preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. An improved understanding of influential factors might improve reproducibility and reduce animal use considering the variability in RUPP phenotype. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching Medline and Embase (until 28 March, 2023) for RUPP studies in murine. Primary outcomes included maternal blood pressure (BP) or proteinuria, fetal weight or crown-rump length, fetal reabsorptions, or antiangiogenic factors. We aimed to identify influential factors by meta-regression analysis. We included 155 studies. Our meta-analysis showed that the RUPP procedure results in significantly higher BP (MD = 24.1 mmHg; [22.6; 25.7]; n = 148), proteinuria (SMD = 2.3; [0.9; 3.8]; n = 28), fetal reabsorptions (MD = 50.4%; [45.5; 55.2]; n = 42), circulating soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) (SMD = 2.6; [1.7; 3.4]; n = 34), and lower fetal weight (MD = -0.4 g; [-0.47; -0.34]; n = 113. The heterogeneity (variability between studies) in primary outcomes appeared ≥90%. Our meta-regression identified influential factors in the method and time point of BP measurement, randomization in fetal weight, and type of control group in sFlt-1. The RUPP is a robust model considering the evident differences in maternal and fetal outcomes. The high heterogeneity reflects the observed variability in phenotype. Because of underreporting, we observed reporting bias and a high risk of bias. We recommend standardizing study design by optimal time point and method chosen for readout measures to limit the variability. This contributes to improved reproducibility and thereby eventually improves the translational value of the RUPP model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren M van Kammen
- Division of Nanomedicine, Department CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Seija E L Taal
- Department of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kimberley E Wever
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain, and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joey P Granger
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States
| | - A Titia Lely
- Department of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fieke Terstappen
- Department of Woman and Baby, University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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3
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Chiorean DM, Cobankent Aytekin E, Mitranovici MI, Turdean SG, Moharer MS, Cotoi OS, Toru HS. Human Placenta and Evolving Insights into Pathological Changes of Preeclampsia: A Comprehensive Review of the Last Decade. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2024; 43:33-46. [PMID: 37906285 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2023.2274823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The placenta, the foremost and multifaceted organ in fetal and maternal biology, is pivotal in facilitating optimal intrauterine fetal development. Remarkably, despite its paramount significance, the placenta remains enigmatic, meriting greater comprehension given its central influence on the health trajectories of both the fetus and the mother. Preeclampsia (PE) and intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR), prevailing disorders of pregnancy, stem from compromised placental development. PE, characterized by heightened mortality and morbidity risks, afflicts 5-7% of global pregnancies, its etiology shrouded in ambiguity. Pertinent pathogenic hallmarks of PE encompass inadequate restructuring of uteroplacental spiral arteries, placental ischemia, and elevated levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), also recognized as soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1). During gestation, the placental derivation of sFlt-1 accentuates its role as an inhibitory receptor binding to VEGF-A and placental growth factor (PlGF), curtailing target cell accessibility. This review expounds upon the placenta's defining cellular component of the trophoblast, elucidates the intricacies of PE pathogenesis, underscores the pivotal contribution of sFlt-1 to maternal pathology and fetal safeguarding, and surveys recent therapeutic strides witnessed in the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Maria Chiorean
- Department of Pathology, County Clinical Hospital of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
| | | | | | - Sabin Gligore Turdean
- Department of Pathology, County Clinical Hospital of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
| | | | - Ovidiu Simion Cotoi
- Department of Pathology, County Clinical Hospital of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
- Department Pathophysiology, "George Emil Palade" University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania, and
| | - Havva Serap Toru
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya Pınarbaşı, Konyaaltı/Antalya, Turkey
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4
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Collée J, Noel L, Seidel L, Chantraine F, Nisolle M, Henry L. Impact of Assisted Reproduction Techniques on Adverse Maternal Outcomes and on the Rate of Hospitalization in Maternal Intensive Care. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2030. [PMID: 38004079 PMCID: PMC10672995 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59112030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective: The aim of this retrospective cohort study is to evaluate the impact of assisted reproductive treatment (ART) on adverse maternal outcomes and the rate of hospitalization in maternal intensive care (MIC) in a tertiary university center in Liege, Belgium. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study comparing two groups, 6557 patients who achieved pregnancy spontaneously and 330 patients who achieved pregnancy after ART, between January 2020 and December 2022. These patients were followed in the academic obstetrics department of Citadelle Hospital, Liège. The database of the ART center was compared with the database of the delivery unit to determine the cohort of patients who conceived after ART. Adverse maternal outcomes and MIC hospitalization rates were compared with between spontaneous pregnancies and ART groups. ART groups were also compared with each other. Results: The rate of hospitalization in maternal intensive care for patients who achieved pregnancy spontaneously was 12.1%, compared to 17.3% after ART. Comparing the rate of pre-eclampsia, 3.5% of spontaneous pregnancies were complicated by pre-eclampsia, while after ART, 10.9% of patients developed this complication during pregnancy. This rate was higher after IVF (12%) compared to intrauterine insemination and particularly after frozen embryo transfer (FET) in artificial cycle (17.9%). The birthweight of newborns after ART was also analyzed. A significant difference was obtained when comparing fresh embryo transfer with FET. Conclusions: Our study confirmed that FET in artificial cycle is a risk factor for pre-eclampsia and that fresh embryo transfer is associated with a higher rate of newborns with a lower percentile of birthweight. Our data showed that the rate of MIC hospitalization was significantly higher after ART but did not differ between groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Collée
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium (L.H.)
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Laure Noel
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium (L.H.)
| | - Laurence Seidel
- Department of Statistical Analysis, University of Liège (ULiège), 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Chantraine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium (L.H.)
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium (L.H.)
| | - Laurie Henry
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium (L.H.)
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, Boulevard du 12ème de Ligne 1, 4000 Liege, Belgium
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5
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Dela Justina V, Dos Passos Júnior RR, Lima VV, Giachini FR. Evidence of Nitric Oxide Impairment During Hypertensive Pregnancies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1428:99-125. [PMID: 37466771 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-32554-0_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy complicate up to 10% of pregnancies worldwide, and they can be classified into (1) gestational hypertension, (2) preeclampsia, (3) chronic hypertension and (4) chronic hypertension with preeclampsia. Nitric oxide (NO) plays an essential role in the haemodynamic adaptations observed during pregnancy. It has been shown that the nitric oxide pathway's dysfunction during pregnancy is associated with placental- and vascular-related diseases such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. This review aims to present a brief definition of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and physiological maternal cardiovascular adaptations during pregnancy. We also detail how NO signalling is altered in the (a) systemic vasculature, (b) uterine artery/spiral arteries, (c) implantation and (d) placenta of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. We conclude by summarizing the anti-hypertensive therapy of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy as a specific management strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Dela Justina
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rinaldo Rodrigues Dos Passos Júnior
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra do Garcas, Brazil
| | - Victor Vitorino Lima
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra do Garcas, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Regina Giachini
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra do Garcas, Brazil
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6
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Palei AC, Granger JP, Spradley FT. Placental Ischemia Says "NO" to Proper NOS-Mediated Control of Vascular Tone and Blood Pressure in Preeclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011261. [PMID: 34681920 PMCID: PMC8541176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms and biochemistry. This is followed by describing what is known about NOS-mediated blood pressure control during normal pregnancy. Circulating nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability has been assessed by measuring its metabolites, nitrite (NO2) and/or nitrate (NO3), and shown to rise throughout normal pregnancy in humans and rats and decline postpartum. In contrast, placental malperfusion/ischemia leads to systemic reductions in NO bioavailability leading to maternal endothelial and vascular dysfunction with subsequent development of hypertension in PE. We end this article by describing emergent risk factors for placental malperfusion and ischemic disease and discussing strategies to target the NOS system therapeutically to increase NO bioavailability in preeclamptic patients. Throughout this discussion, we highlight the critical importance that experimental animal studies have played in our current understanding of NOS biology in normal pregnancy and their use in finding novel ways to preserve this signaling pathway to prevent the development, treat symptoms, or reduce the severity of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Palei
- Department of Surgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
| | - Joey P. Granger
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
| | - Frank T. Spradley
- Department of Surgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
- Correspondence:
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7
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Siragher E, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Placental hypoxia: What have we learnt from small animal models? Placenta 2021; 113:29-47. [PMID: 34074553 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine hypoxia is a feature of pregnancy complications, both at high altitude and sea level. To understand the placental response to reduced oxygen availability, small animal models of maternal inhalation hypoxia (MIH) or reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) may be utilised. The aim of this review was to compare the findings of those studies to identify the role of oxygen availability in adapting placental structural and functional phenotypes in relation to fetal outcome. It also sought to explore the evidence for the involvement of particular genes and protein signalling pathways in the placenta in mediating hypoxia driven alterations. The data available demonstrate that both MIH and RUPP can induce placental hypoxia, which affects placental structure and vascularity, as well as glucose, amino acid, calcium and possibly lipid transport capacity. In addition, changes have been observed in HIF, VEGF, insulin/IGF2, AMPK, mTOR, PI3K and PPARγ signalling, which may be key in linking together observed phenotypes under conditions of placental hypoxia. Many different manipulations have been examined, with varied outcomes depending on the intensity, timing and duration of the insult. Some manipulations have detrimental effects on placental phenotype, viability and fetal growth, whereas in others, the placenta appears to adapt to uphold fetal growth despite the challenge of low oxygen. Together these data suggest a complex response of the placenta to reduced oxygen availability, which links to changes in fetal outcomes. However, further work is required to explore the role of fetal sex, altered maternal physiology and placental molecular mechanisms to fully understand placental responses to hypoxia and their relevance for pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Siragher
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Downing Street, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Downing Street, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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8
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Coats LE, Bamrick-Fernandez DR, Ariatti AM, Bakrania BA, Rawls AZ, Ojeda NB, Alexander BT. Stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase diminishes intrauterine growth restriction in a rat model of placental ischemia. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 320:R149-R161. [PMID: 33175587 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00234.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Placental ischemia in preeclampsia (PE) results in hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) reduces blood pressure in the clinically relevant reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of PE, implicating involvement in RUPP-induced hypertension. However, the contribution of sGC in the development of IUGR in PE is not known. Thus, this study demonstrated the efficacy of Riociguat, an sGC stimulator, in IUGR reversion in the RUPP rat model of PE, and tested the hypothesis that improvement in fetal weight occurs in association with improvement in placental perfusion, placental morphology, and placental nutrient transport protein expression. Sham or RUPP surgery was performed at gestational day 14 (G14) with administration of vehicle (Sham or RUPP) or the sGC stimulator (Riociguat, 10 mg/kg/day sc; sGC-treated) until G20. Fetal weight was reduced (P = 0.004) at G20 in RUPP but not in sGC-treated RUPP compared with Sham, the control group. At G20, uterine artery resistance index (UARI) was increased (P = 0.010) in RUPP, indicating poor placental perfusion; proportional junctional zone surface area was elevated (P = 0.035), indicating impaired placental development. These effects were ameliorated in sGC-treated RUPP. Placental protein expression of nutrient transporter heart fatty acid-binding protein (hFABP) was increased (P = 0.008) in RUPP but not in sGC-treated RUPP, suggesting a compensatory mechanism to maintain normal neurodevelopment. Yet, UARI (P < 0.001), proportional junctional zone surface area (P = 0.013), and placental hFABP protein expression (P = 0.008) were increased in sGC-treated Sham, suggesting a potential adverse effect of Riociguat. Collectively, these results suggest sGC contributes to IUGR in PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Coats
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | | | - Allison M Ariatti
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Adam Z Rawls
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Norma B Ojeda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Barbara T Alexander
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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9
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Bajpai D. Preeclampsia for the Nephrologist: Current Understanding in Diagnosis, Management, and Long-term Outcomes. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2020; 27:540-550. [PMID: 33328071 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a multisystem progressive disorder of pregnancy that can be potentially catastrophic for the mother and the fetus. It involves complex perturbations of the kidney and systemic physiology, along with long-term effects on vascular and kidney health. Thus, the nephrologist plays a key role in the peripartum and long-term management of preeclampsia. Recent translational research has improved our understanding of its pathophysiology, and there is hope for novel therapies. In this review, we discuss the evolution of diagnostic criteria and dilemmas in the diagnosis of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. We summarize the advances in the pathogenesis and prediction of preeclampsia. We describe the management and prevention of preeclampsia focusing specially on the forthcoming strategies from the nephrologist's perspective. We address the evidence regarding long-term outcomes for the mother and the child. We end with exploring areas warranting future research.
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10
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Doğanlar O, Doğanlar ZB, Ovali MA, Güçlü O, Demir U, Doğan A, Uzun M. Melatonin regulates oxidative stress and apoptosis in fetal hearts of pinealectomised RUPP rats. Hypertens Pregnancy 2020; 39:429-443. [PMID: 32791955 DOI: 10.1080/10641955.2020.1802595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the effects of melatonin on cardiac oxidative stress and apoptosis in the fetal heart in RUPP rats. METHODS The fetal heart samples were obtained from melatonin administrated RUPP rats. RESULTS Our results indicate that preeclampsia exacerbated by melatonin deficiency triggers hypoxic conditions, both mis/un-folded protein response, oxidative stress-induced DNA damage and apoptosis. Melatonin treatment provided significant therapeutic effects on fetal hearts via regulating all these stress response at cellular and molecular levels. CONCLUSION Melatonin may be considered as a potential molecule for development of preventive strategies to reduce the PE induced risk of cardiovascular diseases in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oğuzhan Doğanlar
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University , Edirne, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Banu Doğanlar
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University , Edirne, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Akif Ovali
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University , Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Orkut Güçlü
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University , Edirne, Turkey
| | - Ufuk Demir
- Experimental Research Center, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University , Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Ayten Doğan
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University , Edirne, Turkey
| | - Metehan Uzun
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University , Çanakkale, Turkey
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11
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Jena MK, Sharma NR, Petitt M, Maulik D, Nayak NR. Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia and Therapeutic Approaches Targeting the Placenta. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10060953. [PMID: 32599856 PMCID: PMC7357118 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious pregnancy complication, affecting about 5–7% of pregnancies worldwide and is characterized by hypertension and damage to multiple maternal organs, primarily the liver and kidneys. PE usually begins after 20 weeks’ gestation and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications and lifelong disabilities—even death—in both the mother and the infant. As delivery is the only cure for the disease, treatment is primarily focused on the management of blood pressure and other clinical symptoms. The pathogenesis of PE is still not clear. Abnormal spiral artery remodeling, placental ischemia and a resulting increase in the circulating levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), also called soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), are believed to be among the primary pathologies associated with PE. sFlt-1 is produced mainly in the placenta during pregnancy and acts as a decoy receptor, binding to free VEGF (VEGF-A) and placental growth factor (PlGF), resulting in the decreased bioavailability of each to target cells. Despite the pathogenic effects of increased sFlt-1 on the maternal vasculature, recent studies from our laboratory and others have strongly indicated that the increase in sFlt-1 in PE may fulfill critical protective functions in preeclamptic pregnancies. Thus, further studies on the roles of sFlt-1 in normal and preeclamptic pregnancies are warranted for the development of therapeutic strategies targeting VEGF signaling for the treatment of PE. Another impediment to the treatment of PE is the lack of suitable methods for delivery of cargo to placental cells, as PE is believed to be of placental origin and most available therapies for PE adversely impact both the mother and the fetus. The present review discusses the pathogenesis of PE, the complex role of sFlt-1 in maternal disease and fetal protection, and the recently developed placenta-targeted drug delivery system for the potential treatment of PE with candidate therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Jena
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India;
- Correspondence:
| | - Neeta Raj Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India;
| | - Matthew Petitt
- Redwood Biomedical Editing, Redwood City, CA 94061, USA;
| | - Devika Maulik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMKC School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; (D.M.); (N.R.N.)
| | - Nihar Ranjan Nayak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMKC School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; (D.M.); (N.R.N.)
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12
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Travis OK, White D, Baik C, Giachelli C, Thompson W, Stubbs C, Greer M, Lemon JP, Williams JM, Cornelius DC. Interleukin-17 signaling mediates cytolytic natural killer cell activation in response to placental ischemia. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 318:R1036-R1046. [PMID: 32320265 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00285.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
T-helper (TH)17s, IL-17, and cytolytic natural killer cells (cNKs) are increased in preeclampsia and contribute to the hypertension, inflammation, and fetal growth restriction that occurs in response to placental ischemia in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of preeclampsia. As IL-17 stimulates NK cytotoxicity in vitro, we tested the hypothesis that IL-17 inhibition in RUPP rats would decrease cNK activation as a mechanism to improve maternal and fetal outcomes. On gestation day (GD) 14, rats undergoing RUPP received a miniosmotic pump infusing IL-17RC (100 pg/day), a soluble IL-17 receptor (RUPP + IL-17RC). On GD19, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured in normal pregnant (NP), RUPP, and RUPP + IL-17RC rats (n = 10-12/group), animals were euthanized, and blood and tissues were collected for analysis. MAP was 30% higher in RUPP compared with NP (P < 0.0001) and was 12% lower in RUPP + IL-17RC (P = 0.0007 vs. RUPP). Placental cytolytic NK cells were 132% higher in RUPP than in NP (P = 0.04 vs. NP) and were normalized in RUPP + IL-17RC (P = 0.03 vs. RUPP). Placental levels of TNF-α, a cNK-secreted cytokine, and macrophage inflammatory protein-3α (MIP-3α), a cNK chemokine, were higher in RUPP vs. NP and lower after IL-17 blockade. Placental VEGF was lower in RUPP vs. NP and was normalized in RUPP + IL-17RC. In vitro cytolytic activity of RUPP placental NKs was higher compared with NP and was blunted in RUPP + IL-17RC NKs. Finally, both fetal weight and placental weight were lower in RUPP compared with NP, and were improved in RUPP + IL-17RC. These data identify IL-17 as a mediator of cNK activation in response to placental ischemia during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia K Travis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Dakota White
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Cedar Baik
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Chelsea Giachelli
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Willie Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Cassandra Stubbs
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Mallory Greer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - James P Lemon
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Jan Michael Williams
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Denise C Cornelius
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi.,Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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13
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Laule CF, Odean EJ, Wing CR, Root KM, Towner KJ, Hamm CM, Gilbert JS, Fleming SD, Regal JF. Role of B1 and B2 lymphocytes in placental ischemia-induced hypertension. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2019; 317:H732-H742. [PMID: 31397167 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00132.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a prevalent pregnancy complication characterized by new-onset maternal hypertension and inflammation, with placental ischemia as the initiating event. Studies of others have provided evidence for the importance of lymphocytes in placental ischemia-induced hypertension; however, the contributions of B1 versus B2 lymphocytes are unknown. We hypothesized that peritoneal B1 lymphocytes are important for placental ischemia-induced hypertension. As an initial test of this hypothesis, the effect of anti-CD20 depletion on both B-cell populations was determined in a reduced utero-placental perfusion pressure (RUPP) model of preeclampsia. Anti-murine CD20 monoclonal antibody (5 mg/kg, Clone 5D2) or corresponding mu IgG2a isotype control was administered intraperitoneally to timed pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats on gestation day (GD)10 and 13. RUPP or sham control surgeries were performed on GD14, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured on GD19 from a carotid catheter. As anticipated, RUPP surgery increased MAP and heart rate and decreased mean fetal and placental weight. However, anti-CD20 treatment did not affect these responses. On GD19, B-cell populations were enumerated in the blood, peritoneal cavity, spleen, and placenta with flow cytometry. B1 and B2 cells were not significantly increased following RUPP. Anti-CD20 depleted B1 and B2 cells in peritoneum and circulation but depleted only B2 lymphocytes in spleen and placenta, with no effect on circulating or peritoneal IgM. Overall, these data do not exclude a role for antibodies produced by B cells before depletion but indicate the presence of B lymphocytes in the last trimester of pregnancy is not critical for placental ischemia-induced hypertension.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The adaptive and innate immune systems are implicated in hypertension, including the pregnancy-specific hypertensive condition preeclampsia. However, the mechanism of immune system dysfunction leading to pregnancy-induced hypertension is unresolved. In contrast to previous reports, this study reveals that the presence of classic B2 lymphocytes and peritoneal and circulating B1 lymphocytes is not required for development of hypertension following third trimester placental ischemia in a rat model of pregnancy-induced hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor F Laule
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | - Evan J Odean
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | - Cameron R Wing
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | - Kate M Root
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | - Kendra J Towner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | - Cassandra M Hamm
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | - Jeffrey S Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
| | | | - Jean F Regal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota
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14
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Regal JF, Lund JM, Wing CR, Root KM, McCutcheon L, Bemis LT, Gilbert JS, Fleming SD. Interactions between the complement and endothelin systems in normal pregnancy and following placental ischemia. Mol Immunol 2019; 114:10-18. [PMID: 31326653 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is characterized by new onset hypertension and fetal growth restriction and is associated with aberrant activation of the innate immune complement system and stressed or ischemic placenta. Previous studies have suggested a role for both endothelin and complement system activation products in new onset hypertension in pregnancy, but inter-relationships of the pathways are unclear. We hypothesized that complement activation following placental ischemia stimulates the endothelin pathway to cause hypertension and impair fetal growth. The Reduced Uterine Perfusion Pressure (RUPP) model results in hypertension and fetal growth restriction in a pregnant rat due to placental ischemia caused by mechanical obstruction of blood flow to uterus and placenta. The effect of inhibitor of complement activation soluble Complement Receptor 1 (sCR1) and endothelin A receptor (ETA) antagonist atrasentan on hypertension, fetal weight, complement activation (systemic circulating C3a and local C3 placental deposition) and endothelin [circulating endothelin and message for preproendothelin (PPE), ETA and endothelin B receptor (ETB) in placenta] in the RUPP rat model were determined. Following placental ischemia, sCR1 attenuated hypertension but increased message for PPE and ETA in placenta, suggesting complement activation causes hypertension via an endothelin independent pathway. With ETA antagonism the placental ischemia-induced increase in circulating C3a was unaffected despite inhibition of hypertension, indicating systemic C3a alone is not sufficient. In normal pregnancy, inhibiting complement activation increased plasma endothelin but not placental PPE message. Atrasentan treatment increased fetal weight, circulating endothelin and placental ETA message, and unexpectedly increased local complement activation in placenta (C3 deposition) but not C3a in circulation, suggesting endothelin controls local placental complement activation in normal pregnancy. Atrasentan also significantly decreased message for endogenous complement regulators Crry and CD55 in placenta and kidney in normal pregnancy. Results of our study indicate that complement/endothelin interactions differ in pregnancies complicated with placental ischemia vs normal pregnancy, as well as locally vs systemically. These data clearly illustrate the complex interplay between complement and endothelin indicating that perturbations of either pathway may affect pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean F Regal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Jenna M Lund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Cameron R Wing
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Kate M Root
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Luke McCutcheon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Lynne T Bemis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Jeffrey S Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1035 University Dr., University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, USA.
| | - Sherry D Fleming
- Division of Biology, 18 Ackert, Kansas State University, 1717 Claflin Rd, Manhattan, Kansas, 66506, USA.
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15
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Phipps EA, Thadhani R, Benzing T, Karumanchi SA. Pre-eclampsia: pathogenesis, novel diagnostics and therapies. Nat Rev Nephrol 2019; 15:275-289. [PMID: 30792480 PMCID: PMC6472952 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-019-0119-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 543] [Impact Index Per Article: 108.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that is associated with substantial maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The disease presents with new-onset hypertension and often proteinuria in the mother, which can progress to multi-organ dysfunction, including hepatic, renal and cerebral disease, if the fetus and placenta are not delivered. Maternal endothelial dysfunction due to circulating factors of fetal origin from the placenta is a hallmark of pre-eclampsia. Risk factors for the disease include maternal comorbidities, such as chronic kidney disease, hypertension and obesity; a family history of pre-eclampsia, nulliparity or multiple pregnancies; and previous pre-eclampsia or intrauterine fetal growth restriction. In the past decade, the discovery and characterization of novel antiangiogenic pathways have been particularly impactful both in increasing understanding of the disease pathophysiology and in directing predictive and therapeutic efforts. In this Review, we discuss the pathogenic role of antiangiogenic proteins released by the placenta in the development of pre-eclampsia and review novel therapeutic strategies directed at restoring the angiogenic imbalance observed during pre-eclampsia. We also highlight other notable advances in the field, including the identification of long-term maternal and fetal risks conferred by pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Phipps
- Nephrology Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ravi Thadhani
- Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Benzing
- Department II of Internal Medicine and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - S Ananth Karumanchi
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Nephrology Division, Departments of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
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16
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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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17
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Maric-Bilkan C. Portfolio analysis on preeclampsia and pregnancy-associated hypertension research funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Physiol Genomics 2018; 50:982-987. [PMID: 30265594 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00093.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hypertension and preeclampsia are the most common complications of pregnancy. To clarify the contributions of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to the field and identify potential research gaps, we performed portfolio analysis of awards related to preeclampsia and pregnancy-associated hypertension. A list of National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded awards between fiscal years 2008-present was obtained through an NIH RePORTER search using the following terms: "preeclampsia" and "pregnancy-associated hypertension." More in-depth analyses were performed on currently active awards supported by the NHLBI. The NHLBI is the lead institute at the NIH in funding research related to pregnancy-associated hypertension and second leading in funding research related to preeclampsia. The NHLBI currently supports 38 awards related to preeclampsia and six awards related to pregnancy-associated hypertension, with a combined total dollar investment of $21 million. Of the currently active, NHLBI-supported awards on preeclampsia and pregnancy-associated hypertension combined, 47% are related to basic science research, 30% to clinical, 14% to clinical trials, and 9% to early translational research. The focus of NHLBI-funded awards is primarily on vascular mechanisms and short and long-term cardiovascular complications of preeclampsia and pregnancy-associated hypertension. Despite steady funding for research on preeclampsia and pregnancy-associated hypertension, several gaps in knowledge exist. NHLBI held a workshop entitled Predicting, Preventing and Treating Preeclampsia to address some of these gaps and inform future research directions for the institute.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Maric-Bilkan
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Vascular biology and Hypertension branch, Bethesda, Maryland
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18
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Jelinic M, Marshall SA, Stewart D, Unemori E, Parry LJ, Leo CH. Peptide hormone relaxin: from bench to bedside. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2018; 314:R753-R760. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00276.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The peptide hormone relaxin has numerous roles both within and independent of pregnancy and is often thought of as a “pleiotropic hormone.” Relaxin targets several tissues throughout the body, and has many functions associated with extracellular matrix remodeling and the vasculature. This review considers the potential therapeutic applications of relaxin in cervical ripening, in vitro fertilization, preeclampsia, acute heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion, and cirrhosis. We first outline the animal models used in preclinical studies to progress relaxin into clinical trials and then discuss the findings from these studies. In many cases, the positive outcomes from preclinical animal studies were not replicated in human clinical trials. Therefore, the focus of this review is to evaluate the various animal models used to develop relaxin as a potential therapeutic and consider the limitations that must be addressed in future studies. These include the use of human relaxin in animals, duration of relaxin treatment, and the appropriateness of the clinical conditions being considered for relaxin therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah A. Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dennis Stewart
- Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Sunnyvale, California
| | | | - Laura J. Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Science and Maths Cluster, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore
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19
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Marshall SA, Hannan NJ, Jelinic M, Nguyen TP, Girling JE, Parry LJ. Animal models of preeclampsia: translational failings and why. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2018; 314:R499-R508. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00355.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia affects up to 8% of pregnancies worldwide and is a leading cause of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Our current understanding of the cause(s) of preeclampsia is far from complete, and the lack of a single reliable animal model that recapitulates all aspects of the disease further confounds our understanding. This is partially due to the heterogeneous nature of the disease, coupled with our evolving understanding of its etiology. Nevertheless, animal models are still highly relevant and useful tools that help us better understand the pathophysiology of specific aspects of preeclampsia. This review summarizes the various types and characteristics of animal models used to study preeclampsia, highlighting particular features of these models relevant to clinical translation. This review points out the strengths and limitations of these models to illustrate the importance of using the appropriate model depending on the research question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie J. Hannan
- The Translational Obstetrics Group, Mercy Hospital for Women, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thy P.H. Nguyen
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane E. Girling
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Laura J. Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Cunningham MW, Castillo J, Ibrahim T, Cornelius DC, Campbell N, Amaral L, Vaka VR, Usry N, Williams JM, LaMarca B. AT1-AA (Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Agonistic Autoantibody) Blockade Prevents Preeclamptic Symptoms in Placental Ischemic Rats. Hypertension 2018; 71:886-893. [PMID: 29555668 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.117.10681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Women with preeclampsia produce AT1-AA (agonistic autoantibodies to the angiotensin II type 1 receptor), which stimulate reactive oxygen species, inflammatory factors, and hypertensive mechanisms (ET [endothelin] and sFlt-1 [soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1]) in rodent models of preeclampsia. The placental ischemic reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of preeclampsia exhibits many of these features. In this study, we examined the maternal outcomes of AT1-AA inhibition ('n7AAc') in RUPP rats. Blood pressure was higher in RUPP rats versus normal pregnant (NP) rats (123±2 versus 99±2 mm Hg, P<0.05), which was reduced in RUPP+'n7AAc' (105±3 versus 123±2 mm Hg, P<0.05 versus RUPP). Uterine artery resistant index was increased in RUPP versus NP rats (0.71±0.02 versus 0.49±0.02, P<0.05) and normalized in RUPP+'n7AAc' rats (0.55±0.03). Antiangiogenic factor sFlt-1 was elevated in RUPP versus NP rats (176±37 versus 77±15 pg/mL, P<0.05) but normalized in RUPP+'n7AAc' (86±9, P=0.05 versus RUPP). Plasma nitrate and nitrite were decreased (14±1 versus 20±1 µMNO3, P<0.05) and isoprostanes were elevated (20 117±6304 versus 2809±1375 pg/mL, P<0.05) in RUPP versus NP rats; and normalized in RUPP+'n7AAc' rats; (18±2 µMNO3; 4311±1 pg/mL). PPET-1 (preproendothelin-1) expression increased 4-fold in RUPP versus NP rats which were prevented with 'n7AAc'. Importantly, placental cytolytic natural killer cells were elevated in RUPP versus NP rats (8±2% versus 2±2% gated, P<0.05), which was prevented in RUPP+'n7AAc' total (3±1% gated, P<0.05) In conclusion, AT1-AA inhibition prevents the rise in maternal blood pressure and several pathophysiological factors associated with preeclampsia in RUPP rats and could be a potential therapy for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Cunningham
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Javier Castillo
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Tarek Ibrahim
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Denise C Cornelius
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Nathan Campbell
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Lorena Amaral
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Venkata Ramana Vaka
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Nathan Usry
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Jan M Williams
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Babbette LaMarca
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology (M.W.C., T.I., D.C.C., N.C., L.A., V.R.V., N.U., J.M.W., B.L.), Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.C., B.L.), and Emergency Medicine (D.C.C.), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson.
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21
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Marshall SA, Leo CH, Girling JE, Tare M, Beard S, Hannan NJ, Parry LJ. Relaxin treatment reduces angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction in pregnancy and protects against endothelial dysfunction†. Biol Reprod 2018; 96:895-906. [PMID: 28379296 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The peptide relaxin has gained considerable attention as a new vasoactive drug, largely through its beneficial therapeutic effects in cardiovascular disease. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that relaxin treatment alleviates systemic vascular dysfunction characteristic of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy. We investigated vascular effects and mechanisms of relaxin action in (i) pregnant relaxin-deficient (Rln-/-) mice with enhanced responses to angiotensin II (AngII) and (ii) arteries pre-incubated ex vivo in trophoblast conditioned media (TCM) to induce endothelial dysfunction. Pregnant Rln-/- mice received 0.5 μg/h recombinant human H2 relaxin (rhRLX: n = 5) or placebo (20 nM sodium acetate; n = 7) subcutaneously via osmotic minipumps for 5 days prior to gestational day 17.5. This treatment protocol significantly reduced AngII-mediated contraction of mesenteric arteries and increased plasma 6-keto prostaglandin F1α. These vascular effects were endothelium independent and likely involve smooth muscle-derived vasodilator prostanoids. In the second study, mesenteric arteries were incubated ex vivo for 24 h at 37°C in TCM, which contained high levels of soluble Flt-1 (>20 ng/ml) and soluble Eng (>1 ng/ml). TCM incubation caused significant reduction in endothelium-dependent relaxation and increased sensitivity to AngII. Co-incubation of arteries with rhRLX for 24 h (n = 6-16/treatment) prevented endothelial dysfunction but had no effect on AngII-mediated contraction. In conclusion, relaxin treatment prevents and/or reverses vascular dysfunction in mesenteric arteries, but acts through different vascular pathways depending on duration of relaxin treatment and type of vascular dysfunction. Overall, our data suggest that relaxin is a potential therapeutic to alleviate maternal systemic vascular dysfunction associated with hypertensive diseases in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane E Girling
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.,Monash Rural Health, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sally Beard
- The Translational Obstetrics Group, Mercy Hospital for Women, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie J Hannan
- The Translational Obstetrics Group, Mercy Hospital for Women, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Endothelin type B (ET B) receptors: friend or foe in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia and future cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk? Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:33-36. [PMID: 29295950 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
In a recent issue of Clinical Science, Stanhewicz et al. investigated persistent microvascular dysfunction in women up to 16 months postpartum. The authors found sensitivity to the pressor effects of endothelin-1 (ET-1) was enhanced when compared with women who had a normotensive pregnancy. Importantly, the authors demonstrated that this effect was mediated via the endothelin type B (ETB) receptors. Therefore, the present study highlights the possibility that alterations in the localization of the ETB receptor contributes to the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia and future cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Currently, there is great interest in the role of the endothelin system in pre-eclampsia. Targetting the endothelin system, potentially by modulating upstream pathways to prevent ETB receptor dysfunction, may improve health outcomes for women and their offspring during pre-eclampsia and later life.
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23
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Logue OC, Mahdi F, Chapman H, George EM, Bidwell GL. A Maternally Sequestered, Biopolymer-Stabilized Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Chimera for Treatment of Preeclampsia. J Am Heart Assoc 2017; 6:e007216. [PMID: 29629873 PMCID: PMC5779036 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.117.007216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a hypertensive syndrome that complicates 3% to 5% of pregnancies in the United States. Preeclampsia originates from an improperly vascularized and ischemic placenta that releases factors that drive systemic pathophysiology. One of these factors, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1, is believed to sequester vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), leading to systemic endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. With the goal of targeting soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 while simultaneously preventing fetal exposure to VEGF, we fused VEGF to elastin-like polypeptide, a biopolymer carrier that does not cross the placental barrier (ELP-VEGF). METHODS AND RESULTS ELP-VEGF restored in vitro endothelial cell tube formation in the presence of plasma from placental ischemic rats. Long-term administered ELP-VEGF in pregnant rats accumulated in maternal kidneys, aorta, liver, and placenta, but the protein was undetectable in the pups when administered at therapeutic doses in dams. Long-term administration of ELP-VEGF in a placental ischemia rat model achieved dose-dependent attenuation of hypertension, with blood pressure equal to sham controls at a dose of 5 mg/kg per day. ELP-VEGF infusion increased total plasma soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 levels but dramatically reduced free plasma soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and induced urinary excretion of nitrate/nitrite, indicating enhanced renal nitric oxide signaling. ELP-VEGF at up to 5 mg/kg per day had no deleterious effect on maternal or fetal body weight. However, dose-dependent adverse events were observed, including ascites production and neovascular tissue encapsulation around the minipump. CONCLUSIONS ELP-VEGF has the potential to treat the preeclampsia maternal syndrome, but careful dosing and optimization of the delivery route are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar C Logue
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Fakhri Mahdi
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Heather Chapman
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Eric M George
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Gene L Bidwell
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
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24
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Relaxin contributes to the regulation of arterial pressure in adult female mice. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 131:2795-2805. [DOI: 10.1042/cs20171225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Relaxin is increasingly being recognized as a potent vasodilatory and antifibrotic hormone. Given that relaxin is present in the circulation during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy, when arterial pressure is lowest in women, relaxin may contribute to the relative cardiovascular protection observed in premenopausal women as compared with age-matched men and postmenopausal women. In the present study, we investigated the contribution of relaxin to the normal regulation of arterial pressure in adult female and male mice and during pregnancy. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured via radiotelemetry in 14-week-old male and female wild-type (WT; C67BL/6xSv129) and relaxin knockout (KO) mice. Thereafter, female mice were time-mated with a (non-telemetered) male of the same genotype and MAP was measured throughout gestation. Basal MAP was ∼10 mmHg lower in WT females than males (P<0.05). Relaxin deficiency increased basal MAP in females (P<0.05 vs WT female), but not males. As expected, MAP decreased during gestation in WT mice. Conversely, in relaxin KO mice, arterial pressure increased during mid and late gestation (P<0.05 as compared with WT). Moreover, relaxin deficiency impaired gestational weight gain and reduced litter size. This is the first study to (i) demonstrate that relaxin contributes to the sexual dimorphism of arterial pressure in mice and (ii) document the changes in the arterial pressure profile of pregnant relaxin KO mice. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie the regulation of arterial pressure in premenopausal females may uncover new strategies to treat hypertension in women (non-pregnant and pregnant) and men.
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25
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Ngene NC, Moodley J. Physiology of blood pressure relevant to managing hypertension in pregnancy. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 32:1368-1377. [PMID: 29172798 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1404569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pregnancy causes physiological changes in maternal organ systems, and blood pressure (BP) is one of the variables affected. This review is focusing on the physiology of BP relevant to the management of hypertension in pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS A detailed literature search was performed using electronic databases (including WorldCat, PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar) to retrieve and review reports related to physiology of BP in pregnancy. RESULTS During pregnancy, there is vasodilation caused by mediators such as increased levels of progesterone and nitric oxide. The vasodilation leads to a reduction in vascular resistance, BP, and renal blood flow. In compensation, the following postulated events occur: activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis, resetting of osmotic threshold for thirst, and an increase in the production of vasopressin. Sodium and water conservation ensue to increase the total body water, end-diastolic volume, cardiac output, and BP. The increase in cardiac output incompletely compensates for the decreased vascular resistance, and BP therefore decreases in midpregnancy and returns to prepregnancy level toward term. CONCLUSIONS An understanding of the physiological changes in BP is essential for appropriate management of pregnancy-related hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nnabuike C Ngene
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of KwaZulu-Natal , Durban , South Africa
| | - Jagidesa Moodley
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Women's Health and HIV Research Group, University of KwaZulu-Natal , Durban , South Africa
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26
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Rehfeldt M, Eklund E, Struck J, Sparwasser A, O'Brien B, Palomaki GE, Köhrle J, Bergmann A, Lambert-Messerlian G. Relaxin-2 connecting peptide (pro-RLX2) levels in second trimester serum samples to predict preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2017; 11:124-128. [PMID: 29133069 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy, threatening fetal and maternal health. The aim of our study is to examine the association between preeclampsia and the connecting peptide of the pregnancy hormone relaxin (pro-RLX2) as a potential new biochemical marker. STUDY DESIGN This is a nested case/control study derived from the cohort of pregnancies delivering at Women & Infants Hospital. Cases were identified at a clinic or by hospital codes, and individually confirmed by record review. Stored samples were available from 'integrated' Down syndrome screening. Results were expressed as multiples of the median (MoM). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Preeclampsia was classified as early/severe, late/severe, or mild based on professional guidelines. RESULTS Fifty-one cases were each matched with five control pregnancies. Population distribution parameters were derived for cases and controls. As shown previously, discrimination between cases and controls (applying MoM analysis) was possible for PlGF (0.576, p < .05), inhibin A (1.45, p < .05) and endoglin (1.278, p < .05). No association with preeclampsia was found for pro-RLX2. However, pro-RLX2 correlates with Inhibin A and Endoglin. CONCLUSIONS Endoglin, Inhibin A and PlGF are highly predictive of preeclampsia. Quantification of pro-RLX2 is not able to predict preeclampsia. Nevertheless, the potential involvement of relaxin 2/pro-RLX2 in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Josef Köhrle
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, CVK, Berlin, Germany
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27
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Rehfeldt M, Sparwasser A, Funk E, Köhrle J, Bergmann A. Quantification of Relaxin-2 Connecting Peptide (Pro-RLX2) in Human Blood Samples. J Appl Lab Med 2017; 2:322-334. [PMID: 33636845 DOI: 10.1373/jalm.2017.023069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The peptide hormone relaxin-2 is implicated in diverse physiological and pathophysiological processes. Several assays are available for quantification of human relaxin-2, but because stability of the mature peptide in serum is limited, measurement of the more stable connecting peptide (pro-RLX2) might be beneficial. METHODS Pro-RLX2 was measured in a sandwich immunoluminometric assay using 2 monoclonal antibodies. The concentration of pro-RLX2 was detected in healthy pregnant (n = 100) and healthy male and nonpregnant female (n = 81) subjects and compared with the concentration of mature relaxin-2 in a subset of samples. RESULTS The pro-RLX2 immunoassay has an analytical and functional assay sensitivity (FAS) of 1.59 pmol/L and 1.7 pmol/L, respectively. The analyte is stable in EDTA plasma samples for 8 days at room temperature, dilutes in a linear fashion, and recovery was 103%. The assay system is not biased by common interfering substances. Measurement of 80% of plasma samples from healthy males and females is below the FAS {median 1.49 pmol/L [interquartile range (IQR) of 0.925-2.14 pmol/L]}, and no concentration difference between male and nonpregnant female plasma samples was observed. The median plasma concentration in healthy pregnant women is increased up to 562 pmol/L (IQR 341-789 pmol/L). During pregnancy, pro-RLX2 concentrations decrease with increasing gestation. The correlation coefficient with the R&D assay for mature relaxin-2 was 0.96 (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Pro-RLX2 is stable in plasma of healthy individuals. Although samples of pregnant women are reliably measurable, most samples from healthy nonpregnant women and men are below the detection limit. Determination of pro-RLX2 concentrations might indicate rate of synthesis of relaxin-2 during pregnancy and therapeutic application of recombinant relaxin (Serelaxin).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Josef Köhrle
- Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie & EnForCé, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, CVK, Berlin, Germany
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28
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Ogunleye O, Campo B, Herrera D, Post Uiterweer ED, Conrad KP. Relaxin confers cytotrophoblast protection from hypoxia-reoxygenation injury through the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt/protein kinase B cell survival pathway. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2017; 312:R559-R568. [PMID: 28122716 PMCID: PMC5407077 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00306.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a hypertensive syndrome that manifests after 20 wk of gestation. Contemporary understanding of the maternal-fetal interface in preeclampsia suggests a major role for placental oxidative stress resulting from ischemia-reperfusion injury. We hypothesized that the pregnancy hormone relaxin would reduce cytotrophoblast apoptosis and necrosis (aponecrosis) and, hence, the export of placental debris into the maternal circulation. If so, then relaxin might be employed as a therapeutic intervention to diminish the activation of the maternal systemic inflammatory response central to the development of clinical disease. HTR-8/SVneo cells, a model for first trimester extravillous trophoblast, were subjected to serum deprivation and hypoxia or hypoxia-reoxygenation. The cells were treated with recombinant human relaxin or vehicle and apoptosis and/or necrosis evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), CellEvent Caspase-3/7 and SYTOX AADvanced kit, and propidium iodide staining as determined by fluorescence microscopy or flow cytometry. To interrogate mechanisms of relaxin cytoprotection, HTR-8/SVneo cells were pretreated with pharmacological inhibitors of PI3-kinase LY294004, Akt/PKB MK-2206, or DMSO vehicle. HTR-8/SVneo cell identity was first confirmed by RT-PCR. The cells expressed placental alkaline phosphatase, aromatase, and human leukocyte antigen G. In addition, the cells expressed the relaxin receptor RXFP1 as well as H1 and H2 relaxins. Serum deprivation and hypoxia increased apoptotic cell death in HTR-8/SVneo cells, which was significantly ameliorated by concurrent treatment with relaxin. Serum deprivation and hypoxia-reoxygenation increased necrotic cell death in HTR-8/SVneo cells, which was also significantly rescued by concurrent treatment with relaxin. Pretreatment with LY294002 or MK-2206, to inhibit the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt/protein kinase B cell survival pathway, significantly blunted the cytoprotective effect of relaxin. We demonstrated trophoblast cytoprotection by intervention with supraphysiological concentrations of relaxin, a process in part mediated through the PI3-kinase-Akt/PKB cell survival pathway. These results provide further rationale for clinical investigation of relaxin as a potential therapeutic in preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluseyi Ogunleye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida; and
| | - Bertha Campo
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Diana Herrera
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Emiel D Post Uiterweer
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida; and
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
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