Prevention of Preeclampsia and Intrauterine Growth Restriction With Aspirin Started in Early Pregnancy: A Meta-Analysis

Prophylactic transfusion for pregnant women with sickle cell disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Prophylactic transfusion in pregnant women with SCD may reduce maternal mortality, vaso-occlusive pain events, and pulmonary complications. Prophylactic transfusion in pregnant women with SCD may similarly reduce perinatal mortality, neonatal death, and preterm birth.

First trimester prediction of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious pregnancy-related condition that causes severe maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Within the recent years, there has been an increasing focus in predicting PE at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. In this review, literature published between 2011 and 2015 was evaluated. In a total of six biomarker algorithms, for first and early second trimester, the prediction of preeclampsia is discussed. In addition, one randomized clinical trial was included. Several algorithms were based on placental biomarkers such as pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A), placental growth factor (PLGF), and soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase 1 (s-FLT-1). The algorithms containing these biomarkers showed a high prediction rate (PR) for early onset PE, ranging from 44 to 92 % at 5 % false positive rate (FPR). New biomarkers suggest an alternative model based on free HbF and the heme scavenger alpha-1-microglobulin (A1M) with a prediction rate of 69 % at an FPR of 5 %. Interestingly, this model performs well without uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (UtAD-PI), which is an advantage particularly if the screening method were to be implemented in developing countries. The randomized clinical trial showed a clear reduction in early onset PE as well as reducing preterm PE if identified high-risk pregnancies were treated with low-dose aspirin. In conclusion, PE prediction is now possible through several prediction algorithms and prophylaxis is beneficial in high-risk cases.

Cardiovascular Complications of Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes significant metabolic and hemodynamic changes in a woman's physiology to allow for fetal growth. The inability to adapt to these changes might result in the development of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (hypertension, preeclampsia or eclampsia), gestational diabetes and preterm birth. Contrary to previous beliefs these complications are not limited to the pregnancy period and may leave permanent vascular and metabolic damage. There is in addition, a direct association between these disorders and increased risk of future cardiovascular disease (CVD, including hypertension, ischemic heart disease, heart failure and stroke) and diabetes mellitus. Despite abundant evidence of this association, women who present with these complications of pregnancy do not receive adequate postpartum follow up and counseling regarding their increased risk of future CVD. The postpartum period in these women represents a unique opportunity to intervene with lifestyle modifications designed to reduce the development of premature cardiovascular complications. In some cases it allows early diagnosis and treatment of chronic hypertension or diabetes mellitus. The awareness of this relationship is growing in the medical community, especially among obstetricians and primary care physicians, who play a pivotal role in detecting these complications and assuring appropriate follow up.

Early prediction and aspirin for prevention of pre-eclampsia (EPAPP) study: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the effect of early administration of aspirin on the prevention of pre-eclampsia in high-risk women.

METHODS

This was planned as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of aspirin for women with risk factors for pre-eclampsia. Participants were randomized to start either aspirin (81 mg/day) or placebo at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks of gestation. The primary outcome was pre-eclampsia and secondary outcomes included gestational hypertension and small-for-gestational age at birth.

RESULTS

The trial suffered from slow recruitment, leading to a protocol change to broaden the inclusion criteria (from a minimum score of multiple risk factors to at least one risk factor for pre-eclampsia). The trial was then terminated prematurely due to continuing slow recruitment and a lack of equipoise given a change in national guidelines to administer aspirin to high-risk women. From the 53 women who were randomized, 30 were included in the final analysis. There was no evidence that the primary outcome of pre-eclampsia was prevented by low-dose aspirin (relative risk (RR) 0.88, 95% CI 0.21-3.66). Gestational hypertension was seen in two women, both in the aspirin group. There was no evidence that the occurrence of small-for-gestational age was reduced by aspirin (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.06-12.72).

CONCLUSIONS

Although this study was underpowered to show effectiveness of aspirin compared to placebo due to the premature termination and difficulties encountered, it highlights practical issues to inform future studies.

Prediction and prevention of early-onset pre-eclampsia: impact of aspirin after first-trimester screening

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of a combination of screening and treatment with low-dose aspirin on the prevalence of early-onset pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of two consecutive cohorts of women screened for early PE. The first cohort was observed to determine whether algorithms developed to screen for PE at 11 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation could be applied to our population. High-risk women in the second cohort were advised on their risk and offered aspirin (150 mg at night), with treatment starting immediately after screening. The prevalence of early PE and the proportion of women with PE delivering at 34-37 weeks' gestation were compared between the cohorts.

RESULTS

In the observational and interventional cohorts, 3066 and 2717 women, respectively, were screened. There were 12 (0.4%) cases of early PE in the observational cohort and one (0.04%) in the interventional cohort (P < 0.01). Among all women with PE delivering before 37 weeks, 25 (0.83%) were in the observational cohort and 10 (0.37%) in the interventional cohort (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

A strategy of first-trimester screening for early PE coupled with prescription of aspirin to the high-risk group appears to be effective in reducing the prevalence of early PE.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by biophysical and biochemical markers at 30-34 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential value of combined screening by maternal characteristics and medical history (maternal factors), estimated fetal weight (EFW), uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and serum levels of placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) at 30-34 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in 9472 singleton pregnancies at 30-34 weeks' gestation, comprising 469 that delivered SGA neonates and 9003 cases unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if UtA-PI, MAP and serum PlGF or sFlt-1, individually or in combination, improved the prediction of SGA neonates provided from screening by maternal factors and EFW.

RESULTS

Compared to the normal group, mean log10 multiples of the median (MoM) values of UtA-PI, MAP and serum sFlt-1 were significantly higher and log10 MoM PlGF was lower in the SGA group. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that in the prediction of SGA neonates with a birth weight < 5(th) percentile, delivering < 5 weeks and ≥ 5 weeks after assessment, there were significant independent contributions from maternal factors, EFW, UtA-PI, MAP, and serum PlGF and sFlt-1, but the best performance was provided by a combination of maternal factors, EFW, UtA-PI, MAP and serum PlGF, excluding sFlt-1. Combined screening predicted, at a 10% false-positive rate, 89%, 94%, 96% of SGA neonates delivering at 32-36 weeks' gestation with birth weight < 10(th) , < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively; the respective detection rates of combined screening for SGA neonates delivering ≥ 37 weeks were 57%, 65% and 72%.

CONCLUSION

Combined screening by maternal factors and biophysical and biochemical markers at 30-34 weeks' gestation could identify a high proportion of pregnancies that will deliver SGA neonates.

Validation of metabolomic models for prediction of early-onset preeclampsia

OBJECTIVE

We sought to perform validation studies of previously published and newly derived first-trimester metabolomic algorithms for prediction of early preeclampsia (PE).

STUDY DESIGN

Nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomic analysis was performed on first-trimester serum in 50 women who subsequently developed early PE and in 108 first-trimester controls. Random stratification and allocation was used to divide cases into a discovery group (30 early PE and 65 controls) for generation of the biomarker model(s) and a validation group (20 early PE and 43 controls) to ensure an unbiased assessment of the predictive algorithms. Cross-validation testing on the different algorithms was performed to confirm their robustness before use. Metabolites, demographic features, clinical characteristics, and uterine Doppler pulsatility index data were evaluated. Area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC), 95% confidence interval (CI), sensitivity, and specificity of the biomarker models were derived.

RESULTS

Validation testing found that the metabolite-only model had an AUC of 0.835 (95% CI, 0.769-0.941) with a 75% sensitivity and 74.4% specificity and for the metabolites plus uterine Doppler pulsatility index model it was 0.916 (95% CI, 0.836-0.996), 90%, and 88.4%, respectively. Predictive metabolites included arginine and 2-hydroxybutyrate, which are known to be involved in vascular dilation, and insulin resistance and impaired glucose regulation, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We found confirmatory evidence that first-trimester metabolomic biomarkers can predict future development of early PE.

SOMANZ guidelines for the management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy 2014

This guideline is an evidence based, practical clinical approach to the management of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy. Since the previous SOMANZ guideline published in 2008, there has been significant international progress towards harmonisation of definitions in relation to both the diagnosis and management of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. This reflects increasing knowledge of the pathophysiology of these conditions, as well as their clinical manifestations. In addition, the guideline includes the management of chronic hypertension in pregnancy, an approach to screening, advice regarding prevention of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and discussion of recurrence risks and long term risk to maternal health. The literature reviewed included the previous SOMANZ Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy guideline from 2008 and its reference list, plus all other published National and International Guidelines on this subject. Medline, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials (CCRCT), National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Evidence Search, and Database of Abstracts and Reviews of Effects (DARE) were searched for literature published between January 2007 and March, 2014.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypertensive Pregnancy Disorders. Guideline of DGGG (S1-Level, AWMF Registry No. 015/018, December 2013)

Purpose: Official guideline published and coordinated by the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG). Hypertensive pregnancy disorders contribute significantly to perinatal as well as maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Also in Germany these diseases are a major course for hospitalization during pregnancy, iatrogenic preterm birth and long-term cardiovascular morbidity. Methods: This S1-guideline is the work of an interdisciplinary group of experts from a range of different professions who were commissioned by DGGG to carry out a systematic literature search of positioning injuries. Members of the participating scientific societies develop a consensus in an informal procedure. Afterwards the directorate of the scientific society approves the consensus. Recommendations: This guideline summarizes the state-of-art for classification, risk stratification, diagnostic, treatment of hypertensive pregnancy disorders.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by uterine artery Doppler and mean arterial pressure at 19-24 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential value of uterine artery (UtA) pulsatility index (PI) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 19-24 weeks' gestation, in combination with maternal characteristics and medical history and fetal biometry in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE) and to examine the potential value of such assessment in deciding whether the third-trimester scan should be performed at 32 and/or 36 weeks' gestation.

METHODS

This was a screening study in 63 975 singleton pregnancies, including 3702 (5.8%) that delivered SGA neonates with birth weight < 5(th) percentile (SGA < 5(th) ) in the absence of PE. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if screening by a combination of maternal factors, fetal head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), femur length (FL), UtA-PI and MAP had significant contribution in predicting SGA neonates. A model was developed to select gestational age for the third-trimester assessment, at 32 and/or 36 weeks, based on the results of screening at 19-24 weeks.

RESULTS

The detection rates (DRs) of combined screening by maternal factors, fetal biometry and UtA-PI at 19-24 weeks were 90%, 68% and 44% for SGA < 5(th) delivering < 32, 32-36 and ≥ 37 weeks' gestation, respectively, at a false-positive rate (FPR) of 10%. The performance of screening was not improved by the addition of MAP. The DR of SGA < 5(th) delivering at 32-36 weeks improved from 68% to 90% with screening at 32 rather than at 19-24 weeks. Similarly, the DR of SGA < 5(th) delivering ≥ 37 weeks improved from 44% with screening at 19-24 weeks to 59% and 76% when screening at 32 and 36 weeks, respectively. In a hypothetical model, it was estimated that if the desired objective of prenatal screening is to predict about 80% of the cases of SGA < 5(th) , it would be necessary to select 17% of the population at the 19-24-week assessment to be reassessed at 32 weeks and 38% to be reassessed at 36 weeks; 62% would not require a third-trimester scan.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal prediction of a high proportion of SGA neonates necessitates the undertaking of screening in the third trimester of pregnancy in addition to assessment in the second trimester, and the timing of such screening, at 32 and/or 36 weeks, should be contingent on the results of the assessment at 19-24 weeks.

Placental Protein 13 Administration to Pregnant Rats Lowers Blood Pressure and Augments Fetal Growth and Venous Remodeling

Reduced first-trimester concentrations of placental protein 13 (PP13) are associated with subsequent development of preeclampsia, a major pregnancy disorder. We previously showed that PP13 has a vasodilatory effect, reduces blood pressure and augments expansive remodeling of the uteroplacental vasculature in pregnant rats. In this study, slow-release osmotic pumps were implanted in gravid rats (on day 8) to provide 1 week of PP13 supplementation. Treatment was associated with a reversible blood pressure reduction that returned to normal on day 15. In addition, PP13 caused venous expansion that is larger in the venous branches closer to the placenta. Then, it increased placental and pup weights. Similar administration of a truncated PP13 variant (DelT221) that is unable to bind carbohydrates (a rare spontaneous mutation associated with a high frequency of severe early preeclampsia among Blacks in South Africa) produced a hypotensive effect similar to the full-length molecule, but without venous remodeling and increased placental and pup weights. These results indicate the importance of PP13 carbohydrate binding for inducing vascular remodeling and improving reproductive outcome. Future studies are needed to determine whether beneficial effects would be evident in animal models of preeclampsia or in women predisposed to the development of preeclampsia.

Combined Screening for Early Detection of Pre-Eclampsia

Although the precise pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia remains unknown, this condition continues to be a major cause of maternal and fetal mortality. Early prediction of pre-eclampsia would allow for timely initiation of preventive therapy. A combination of biophysical and biochemical markers are superior to other tests for early prediction of the development of pre-eclampsia. Apart from the use of parameters in first-trimester aneuploidy screening, cell-free fetal DNA quantification is emerging as a promising marker for prediction of pre-eclampsia. This article reviews the current research of the most important strategies for prediction of pre-eclampsia, including the use of maternal risk factors, mean maternal arterial pressure, ultrasound parameters, and biomarkers.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by maternal biochemical markers at 30-34 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential value of serum placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and α-fetoprotein (AFP) at 30-34 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in singleton pregnancies at 30-34 weeks' gestation, including 490 that delivered SGA neonates and 9360 cases that were unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension (normal outcome). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if screening by serum PlGF, sFlt-1, PAPP-A, free β-hCG and AFP, individually or in combination, improved the prediction of SGA neonates provided by screening with maternal characteristics and medical history (maternal factors), and estimated fetal weight (EFW) from fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length.

RESULTS

Compared to the normal group, the mean log10 multiples of the median (MoM) values of PlGF and AFP were significantly lower and the mean log10 MoM values of sFlt-1 and free β-hCG were significantly higher in the SGA group with a birth weight < 5(th) percentile (SGA < 5(th)) delivering < 5 weeks following assessment. The best model for prediction of SGA was provided by a combination of maternal factors, EFW and serum PlGF. Such combined screening, predicted, at a 10% false-positive rate, 85%, 93% and 92% of SGA neonates delivering < 5 weeks following assessment with birth weight < 10(th), < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively; the respective detection rates of combined screening for SGA neonates delivering ≥ 5 weeks following assessment were 57%, 64% and 71%.

CONCLUSION

Combined screening by maternal factors, EFW and serum PlGF at 30-34 weeks' gestation can identify a high proportion of pregnancies that subsequently deliver SGA neonates.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by placental growth factor and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 at 35-37 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential value of maternal serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) at 35-37 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in singleton pregnancies at 35-37 weeks, including 158 that delivered SGA neonates with birth weight < 5(th) percentile and 3701 cases unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if measuring serum levels of PlGF and sFlt-1 improved the prediction of delivery of SGA neonates provided by screening with maternal characteristics and medical history (maternal factors), and estimated fetal weight (EFW) from fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length.

RESULTS

Compared to the normal group, the median PlGF multiples of the median (MoM) was significantly lower and the median sFlt-1 MoM was significantly higher in the SGA group. Combined screening by maternal factors and EFW at 35-37 weeks predicted, at 10% false-positive rate (FPR), 90%, 92% and 94% of SGA neonates with birth weight < 10(th), < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively, delivering < 2 weeks following assessment; the respective values for SGA delivering ≥ 37 weeks were 66%, 73% and 80%. When PlGF and sFlt-1 were added to a model that combines maternal factors and EFW, sFlt-1 did not remain as a significant independent predictor of SGA < 5(th). Combined screening by maternal factors, EFW and serum PlGF, predicted, at a 10% FPR, 88%, 96% and 94% of SGA neonates with birth weight < 10(th), < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively, delivering < 2 weeks following assessment and the respective values for SGA delivering ≥ 37 weeks were 64%, 75% and 80%.

CONCLUSION

sFlt-1 does not provide significant independent prediction of SGA, in the absence of PE, in addition to combined testing by maternal factors and fetal biometry at 35-37 weeks; whilst the addition of PlGF alone marginally improves the performance of screening.

Aspirin and heparin in pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

A pro-coagulant state during pregnancy can be involved in the occurrence of gestational vascular complications (GVCs) and venous thromboembolism (VTE).

AREAS COVERED

Antithrombotic drugs are used to prevent GVCs and VTE. Aspirin is not efficacious to prevent recurrences in women with previous early loss, while it can prevent pre-eclampsia in some groups of women. Heparins are not effective in the prevention of early recurrent loss and there is uncertainty about their efficacy in women carrying inherited thrombophilias. They could be efficacious in the prevention of GVCs in carriers of inherited thrombophilias, as GVCs have heterogeneous causes, and future studies have to focus on more homogeneous groups of patients. Not enough data are available regarding prophylaxis with heparins to prevent pregnancy-related VTE, but an accurate risk stratification of women during pregnancy and puerperium is crucial for administering prophylaxis in moderate-/high-risk women. Aspirin does not improve live births after assisted reproductive technologies, while heparins increase the number of clinical pregnancies and live births.

EXPERT OPINION

Aspirin is efficacious in the prevention of GVCs in women at risk for pre-eclampsia and in those with antiphospholipid antibodies syndrome. Heparins could give benefit to women at risk for GVCs and/or pregnancy-related VTE.

Hypothesis: Pentoxifylline explores new horizons in treatment of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia, the leading cause of maternal morbidity and perinatal mortality, initiates as inappropriate immune response to trophoblastic invasion impairs placentation and placental circulation. A poorly perfused placenta generates superoxide anions as well as anti-angiogenic factors and this series of events result in impairment of endothelial function, followed by maternal morbidities such as hypertension, kidney injury and proteinuria. Renal loss of anti-coagulant proteins and subsequent hyper-coagulable state along with endothelial dysfunction accelerates progression of the disease toward eclampsia. Since Pentoxifylline, a methyl-xanthine derivative known for enhancement of vascular endothelial function, down-regulation of many inflammatory cytokines increased during preeclampsia, improvement of placental circulation, reduction of ischemia-reperfusion injury, enhancement of vasodilatation and endothelial function, ameliorating proteinuria, inhibition of platelet aggregation and decreasing risk of preterm labor, which are all amongst morbidities of preeclampsia, here it is hypothesized that Pentoxifylline prevents development of preeclampsia and/or decelerate progression of the disease.

Competing risks model in screening for preeclampsia by maternal characteristics and medical history

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop a model for preeclampsia based on maternal demographic characteristics and medical history.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a screening study of 120,492 singleton pregnancies at 11-13 weeks' gestation, including 2704 pregnancies (2.2%) that experienced preeclampsia. A survival-time model for the gestational age at delivery with preeclampsia was developed from variables of maternal characteristics and history. This approach assumes that, if the pregnancy was to continue indefinitely, all women would experience preeclampsia and that whether they do so or not before a specified gestational age depends on competition between delivery before or after development of preeclampsia. A 5-fold cross validation study was conducted to compare the performance of the new model with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.

RESULTS

In the new model, increased risk for preeclampsia, with a consequent shift in the Gaussian distribution of the gestational age at delivery with preeclampsia to the left, is provided by advancing maternal age, increasing weight, Afro-Caribbean and South Asian racial origin, medical history of chronic hypertension, diabetes mellitus and systemic lupus erythematosus or antiphospholipid syndrome, family history and personal history of preeclampsia, and conception by in vitro fertilization. The risk for preeclampsia decreases with increasing maternal height and in parous women with no previous preeclampsia; in the latter, the protective effect, which is related inversely to the interpregnancy interval, persists beyond 15 years. At a screen-positive rate of 11%, as defined by NICE, the new model predicted 40%, 48%, and 54% of cases of total preeclampsia and preeclampsia requiring delivery at <37 and <34 weeks' gestation, respectively, which were significantly higher than the respective values of 35%, 40%, and 44% achieved by application of NICE guidelines.

CONCLUSION

A new model that is based on maternal characteristics and medical history has been developed for the estimation of patient-specific risks for preeclampsia. Such estimation of the a priori risk for preeclampsia is an essential first step in the use of Bayes theorem to combine maternal factors with biomarkers for the continuing development of more effective methods of screening for the disease.

Baseline placental growth factor levels for the prediction of benefit from early aspirin prophylaxis for preeclampsia prevention

OBJECTIVE

Placental growth factor (PlGF) levels early in pregnancy are lower in women who ultimately develop preeclampsia. Early initiation of low-dose aspirin reduces preeclampsia risk in some high risk women. We hypothesized that low PlGF levels may identify women at increased risk for preeclampsia who would benefit from aspirin.

STUDY DESIGN

Secondary analysis of the MFMU High-Risk Aspirin study including singleton pregnancies randomized to aspirin 60mg/d (n=102) or placebo (n=72), with PlGF collected at 13w 0d-16w 6d. Within the placebo group, we estimated the probability of preeclampsia by PlGF level using logistic regression analysis, then determined a potential PlGF threshold for preeclampsia prediction using ROC analysis. We performed logistic regression modeling for potential confounders.

RESULTS

ROC analysis indicated 87.71pg/ml as the threshold between high and low PlGF for preeclampsia-prediction. Within the placebo group high PlGF weakly predicted preeclampsia (AUC 0.653, sensitivity/specificity 63%/66%). We noted a 2.6-fold reduction in preeclampsia with aspirin in the high-PlGF group (12.15% aspirin vs 32.14% placebo, p=0.057), but no significant differences in preeclampsia in the low PlGF group (21.74% vs 15.91%, p=0.445).

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike other studies, we found that high rather than low PlGF levels were associated with an increased preeclampsia risk. Low PlGF neither identified women at increased risk of preeclampsia nor women who benefitted from aspirin. Further research is needed to determine whether aspirin is beneficial in women with high PlGF, and whether the paradigm linking low PlGF and preeclampsia needs to be reevaluated.

CONDENSATION

High-risk women with low baseline PlGF, a risk factor for preeclampsia, did not benefit from early initiation of low-dose aspirin.

Intrapartum mean platelet volume is not a useful predictor of new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether intrapartum mean platelet volume (MPV) can predict new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, data were obtained for women with delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia (≥48 hours after delivery) who attended the Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA, between January 2002 and July 2010. Patients were divided into two subgroups: new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia (no history of hypertensive disorder before 48 hours after delivery) and other late-onset/delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia (history of hypertensive disorders). Cases with no hypertensive disorders paired by delivery date were selected as controls. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine whether MPV could distinguish between cases and controls.

RESULTS

Data for 130 cases of new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia, 71 cases of other late-onset/delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia, and 405 controls were collected. MPV was significantly different between the pre-eclampsia subgroups (P=0.007). ROC curves showed that MPV significantly distinguished new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia cases (area under the curve 0.6, 95% confidence interval 0.5-0.6; P=0.02), with a sensitivity and specificity of 58.1% and 55.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although MPV was significantly lower in women who went on to develop new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia than among controls, it is not a useful predictor. The low MPV suggests a different mechanism for the development of new-onset delayed postpartum pre-eclampsia.

Does low-molecular-weight heparin influence fetal growth or uterine and umbilical arterial Doppler in women with a history of early-onset uteroplacental insufficiency and an inheritable thrombophilia? Secondary randomised controlled trial results

OBJECTIVE

Does low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) added to low-dose aspirin influence fetal growth and flow velocity in uterine and umbilical arteries in women with an inheritable thrombophilia and previous early-onset uteroplacental insufficiency?

DESIGN

Secondary outcomes of the FRUIT-RCT.

SETTING

Multicentre, international.

POPULATION

The FRUIT-RCT included 139 women with inheritable thrombophilia before 12 weeks of gestation. Inclusion criteria were previous delivery before 34 weeks of gestation with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy and/or small-for-gestational-age infant and an inheritable thrombophilia.

METHODS

After randomisation to either daily LMWH with aspirin, or aspirin only, ultrasound measurements were performed at 22-24, 28-30 and 34-36 weeks of gestation. Development during gestation of growth, birthweight and flow velocity of the umbilical artery was examined using the linear mixed model. Uterine artery flow velocity at a single time-point (22-24 weeks) was examined using a chi-square test.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fetal growth over time including birthweight, using Scandinavian, Dutch and customised growth curves; and flow velocity within the uterine and umbilical arteries.

RESULTS

No difference of fetal growth over time could be demonstrated between the study arms, regardless of which reference criteria were used. The flow velocity within the uterine artery and umbilical artery did not differ between study arms.

CONCLUSION

The addition of LMWH to aspirin did not influence fetal growth or umbilical artery flow velocity over time; nor did it influence uterine artery flow velocity.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

LMWH does not influence fetal growth or uterine or umbilical flow velocities.

Mean arterial pressure in the three trimesters of pregnancy: effects of maternal characteristics and medical history

OBJECTIVE

To define the contribution of maternal variables that influence the measured mean arterial pressure (MAP) in screening for pregnancy complications.

METHODS

Maternal characteristics and medical history were recorded, and MAP was measured, in women with a singleton pregnancy attending for three routine hospital visits at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks, 19 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks and 30 + 0 to 34 + 6 weeks or 35 + 0 to 37 + 6 weeks' gestation. For pregnancies delivering phenotypically normal live births or stillbirths at ≥ 24 weeks' gestation, variables from maternal demographic characteristics and medical history that are important in the prediction of MAP were determined from linear mixed-effects multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

MAP was measured in 75 841 cases in the first trimester, 30 447 in the second trimester and 31 673 in the third trimester. Significant independent contributions to MAP were provided by gestational age, maternal age, weight, height, Afro-Caribbean racial origin, cigarette smoking, family history of pre-eclampsia (PE), history of PE in the previous pregnancy, interpregnancy interval, chronic hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The effects of some variables were similar, and for others differed, in the three different trimesters. Random-effects multiple regression analysis was used to define the contribution of maternal variables that influence the measured MAP and express the values as multiples of the median (MoMs). The model was shown to provide an adequate fit of MoM values for all covariates, both in pregnancies that developed PE and in those without this complication.

CONCLUSIONS

A model was fitted to express the measured MAP as MoMs after adjustment for variables from maternal characteristics and medical history that affect this measurement.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by uterine artery Doppler and mean arterial pressure at 30-34 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential value of uterine artery (UtA) pulsatility index (PI) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 30-34 weeks' gestation in the prediction of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in singleton pregnancies at 30-34 weeks' gestation, including 1727 that delivered SGA neonates with a birth weight < 5(th) percentile and 29 122 that were unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension (normal group). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if measuring the UtA-PI and MAP improved the prediction of SGA neonates provided by screening with maternal characteristics and medical history (maternal factors), and estimated fetal weight (EFW) calculated from fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length.

RESULTS

Combined screening by maternal factors and EFW Z-scores predicted 79%, 87% and 92% of SGA neonates delivering < 5 weeks following assessment, with a birth weight < 10(th) , < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively, at a false-positive rate of 10%. The addition of UtA-PI and MAP improved the respective detection rates to 83%, 91% and 93%. Screening by maternal factors and EFW Z-scores predicted 53%, 58% and 61% of SGA delivering ≥ 5 weeks following assessment and these rates increased to 53%, 60% and 63% with the addition of UtA-PI and MAP.

CONCLUSION

Combined testing by maternal factors, fetal biometry, UtA-PI and MAP at 30-34 weeks' gestation could identify a high proportion of pregnancies that deliver SGA neonates.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by uterine artery Doppler and mean arterial pressure at 35-37 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential value of uterine artery (UtA) pulsatility index (PI) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 35-37 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in singleton pregnancies at 35-37 weeks, including 245 that delivered SGA neonates with birth weight < 5(th) percentile and 4876 cases unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if UtA-PI and MAP improved the prediction of SGA neonates provided by screening with maternal characteristics and medical history (maternal factors), and estimated fetal weight (EFW) from fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length.

RESULTS

Compared to the normal group, the median multiple of the median (MoM) values of UtA-PI and MAP were significantly higher in the SGA < 5(th) group. Combined screening by maternal factors, EFW Z-score, UtA-PI and MAP at 35-37 weeks predicted, at a 10% false-positive rate, 90%, 86% and 90% of SGA neonates with birth weight < 10(th) , < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively, delivering < 2 weeks following assessment; the respective values for SGA delivering ≥ 37 weeks were 66%, 74% and 80%. Such performance was not significantly different from screening by maternal factors and EFW Z-score alone.

CONCLUSION

Addition of UtA-PI and MAP to combined testing by maternal factors and fetal biometry at 35-37 weeks does not improve the performance of screening for delivery of SGA neonates.

Uterine artery pulsatility index in the three trimesters of pregnancy: effects of maternal characteristics and medical history

OBJECTIVE

To define the contribution of maternal variables that influence the measured uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) in screening for pregnancy complications.

METHODS

Maternal characteristics and medical history were recorded, and UtA-PI was measured, in women with a singleton pregnancy attending for three routine hospital visits at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks, 19 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks and 30 + 0 to 34 + 6 weeks or 35 + 0 to 37 + 6 weeks' gestation. For pregnancies delivering phenotypically normal live births or stillbirths at ≥ 24 weeks' gestation, variables from maternal demographic characteristics and medical history that are important in the prediction of UtA-PI were determined from linear mixed-effects multiple regression.

RESULTS

UtA-PI was measured in 90 484 cases in the first trimester, 66 862 cases in the second trimester and 33 470 cases in the third trimester of pregnancy. Significant independent contributions to UtA-PI were provided by gestational age, maternal age, weight, racial origin and a history of pre-eclampsia (PE) in the previous pregnancy. Random-effects multiple regression analysis was used to define the contribution of maternal variables that influence the measured UtA-PI and express the values as multiples of the median (MoM). The model was shown to provide an adequate fit of MoM values for all covariates both in pregnancies that developed PE and in those that did not.

CONCLUSIONS

A model was fitted to express the measured UtA-PI as MoMs after adjustment for variables from maternal characteristics and medical history that affect this measurement.

Marketed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, antihypertensives, and human immunodeficiency virus protease inhibitors: as-yet-unused weapons of the oncologists' arsenal

Experimental data indicate that several pharmacological agents that have long been used for the management of various diseases unrelated to cancer exhibit profound in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity. This is of major clinical importance, since it would possibly aid in reassessing the therapeutic use of currently used agents for which clinicians already have experience. Further, this would obviate the time-consuming process required for the development and the approval of novel antineoplastic drugs. Herein, both pre-clinical and clinical data concerning the antineoplastic function of distinct commercially available pharmacological agents that are not currently used in the field of oncology, ie, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antihypertensive agents, and anti-human immunodeficiency virus agents inhibiting viral protease, are reviewed. The aim is to provide integrated information regarding not only the molecular basis of the antitumor function of these agents but also the applicability of the reevaluation of their therapeutic range in the clinical setting.

Applying developmental programming to clinical obstetrics: my ward round

The theory of developmental programming is supported by accumulating evidence, both observational and experimental. The direct application of the principles of developmental programming by clinicians to benefit pregnant women remains an area of limited attention. Examining a selection of inpatients at an obstetric referral center, I searched for situations in which clinical decision making could be driven by the principles of developmental programming. I also looked for situations in which the clinical research agenda could be dictated by these concepts. In the decision to undertake preventive measures to avoid preeclampsia, the offspring’s perspective may support more liberal application of calcium and aspirin. Consideration of the long-term health perspective of the offspring could drive choices in the management of obesity and diabetes in pregnancy. The administration of corticosteroids in women delivering by elective cesarean at term may have modest short-term benefits, but additional trials are necessary to investigate long-term offspring health. The offspring of women suffering hyperemesis gravidarum may benefit from nutritional therapy. The long-term health of the offspring could affect couples’ choice for IVF or expectant management. Applying the principles of developmental programming to the management of pregnant women could drive clinical decision making and is driving the clinical research agenda. Increasingly, developmental programming concepts are becoming an integral part of clinical practice, as well as determining the choice of outcomes in trials in obstetrics and fertility medicine. The presented cases underscore the need for more research to guide clinical practice.

Maternal preeclampsia and risk for cardiovascular disease in offspring

Hypertensive disease of pregnancy (HDP) has been associated with elevated lifetime cardiovascular risk, including stroke, myocardial disease, coronary artery disease, and peripheral arterial disease. These two entities share common risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and hypertension. This article will evaluate the current literature on the maternal and fetal cardiovascular risks posed by HDP. The landmark study by Barker et al. demonstrated increased cardiovascular risk in growth-restricted infants, which may also be associated with HDP. Research has demonstrated the effects that HDP may have on the vascular and nephron development in offspring, particularly with respect to endothelial and inflammatory markers. In order to control for confounding variables and better understand the relationship between HDP and lifetime cardiovascular risk, future research will require following blood pressure and metabolic profiles of the parturients and their offspring.

Role of 3-D ultrasound in clinical obstetric practice: evolution over 20 years

The use of 3-D ultrasound in obstetrics has undergone dramatic development over the past 20 years. Since the first publications on this application in clinical practice, several 3-D ultrasound techniques and rendering modes have been proposed and applied to the study of fetal brain, face and cardiac anatomy. In addition, 3-D ultrasound has improved calculations of the volume of fetal organs and limbs and estimations of fetal birth weight. And furthermore, angiographic patterns of fetal organs and the placenta have been assessed using 3-D power Doppler ultrasound quantification. In this review, we aim to summarize current evidence on the clinical relevance of these methodologies and their application in obstetric practice.

Early initiation of low-dose aspirin for reduction in preeclampsia risk in high-risk women: a secondary analysis of the MFMU High-Risk Aspirin Study

OBJECTIVE

Early initiation of low-dose aspirin (LDA) may reduce preeclampsia risk. We sought to determine whether LDA was beneficial when initiated <17w0d, within a trial of high-risk women enrolled <26w0d.

STUDY DESIGN

Secondary analysis of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units High-Risk Aspirin study, including women enrolled <17w0d, randomized to LDA (60 mg day(-1)) or placebo with chronic hypertension (CHTN, n=186), diabetes (n=191) or prior preeclampsia (n=146). The primary outcome was preeclampsia at any time in pregnancy, secondary outcomes were early preeclampsia (<34w0d), late preeclampsia (⩾34w), small for gestational age (SGA; neonatal birthweight <10th %) and composite (early preeclampsia or SGA). Outcomes were compared by exact Χ(2)-tests.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar between treatment groups. Aspirin was associated with a lower rate of late-onset preeclampsia ⩾34w (17.36% vs 24.42%, P=0.047), with a 41% reduction in women with CHTN (18.28% vs 31.18%, P=0.041). There were no other significant differences in the outcome.

CONCLUSION

Aspirin initiated <17w0d reduced the risk for late-onset preeclampsia by 29% supporting the practice of early initiation of aspirin in high-risk women.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by fetal biometry at 30-34 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of fetal biometry at 30-34 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in 30 849 singleton pregnancies at 30-34 weeks' gestation, comprising 1727 that delivered SGA neonates with a birth weight < 5(th) percentile and 29 122 cases unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if screening by a combination of maternal factors and Z-scores of fetal head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC) and femur length (FL) or estimated fetal weight (EFW) had a significant contribution to the prediction of SGA neonates.

RESULTS

Combined screening by maternal characteristics and obstetric history, with Z-scores of EFW at 30-34 weeks, predicted 79%, 87% and 92% of the SGA neonates that delivered < 5 weeks following assessment, with a birth weight < 10(th) , < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively, at a 10% false-positive rate. The respective detection rates for the prediction of SGA neonates delivering ≥ 5 weeks from the time of assessment were 53%, 58% and 61%. The performance of screening by a combination of Z-scores of fetal HC, AC and FL was similar to that achieved by the EFW Z-score alone.

CONCLUSION

Combined testing by maternal characteristics and fetal biometry at 30-34 weeks could identify a high proportion of pregnancies that will deliver SGA neonates.

Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by fetal biometry at 35-37 weeks

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of fetal biometry at 35-37 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE).

METHODS

This was a screening study in singleton pregnancies at 35-37 weeks' gestation, comprising 278 that delivered SGA neonates with a birth weight < 5th percentile and 5237 cases unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if screening by a combination of maternal factors and Z-scores of fetal head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC) and femur length (FL) or estimated fetal weight (EFW) had a significant contribution to the prediction of SGA neonates.

RESULTS

Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the likelihood of delivering a SGA neonate with a birth weight < 5th percentile decreased with maternal weight and height, and in parous women the risk increased with a longer interpregnancy interval. The risk was higher in women of Afro-Caribbean and South Asian racial origins, in cigarette smokers, nulliparous women and in those with history of SGA, with or without prior PE. Combined screening by maternal characteristics and history with EFW Z-scores at 35-37 weeks predicted 89% of SGA neonates with birth weight < 5th percentile delivering < 2 weeks following assessment, at a 10% false-positive rate (FPR). The respective detection rate for the prediction of SGA neonates delivering ≥ 37 weeks' gestation was 70%. The performance of screening by a combination of Z-scores of fetal HC, AC and FL was similar to that achieved by the EFW Z-score.

CONCLUSION

Combined testing by maternal characteristics and fetal biometry at 35-37 weeks could identify, at a 10% FPR, about 90% of pregnancies that subsequently deliver SGA neonates within 2 weeks of assessment and 70% of those that deliver ≥ 37 weeks.

First-trimester uterine artery Doppler analysis in the prediction of later pregnancy complications

Uterine artery Doppler waveform analysis has been extensively studied in the second trimester of pregnancy as a predictive marker for the later development of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. The use of Doppler interrogation of this vessel in the first trimester has gained momentum in recent years. Various measurement techniques and impedance indices have been used to evaluate the relationship between uterine artery Doppler velocimetry and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Overall, first-trimester Doppler interrogation of the uterine artery performs better in the prediction of early-onset than late-onset preeclampsia. As an isolated marker of future disease, its sensitivity in predicting preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction in low risk pregnant women is moderate, at 40–70%. Multiparametric predictive models, combining first-trimester uterine artery pulsatility index with maternal characteristics and biochemical markers, can achieve a detection rate for early-onset preeclampsia of over 90%. The ideal combination of these tests and validation of them in various patient populations will be the focus of future research.

Risk threshold for starting low dose aspirin in pregnancy to prevent preeclampsia: an opportunity at a low cost

Background

Preeclampsia (PE) increases maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Based on a multitude of data from randomized clinical trials, clinical practice guidelines endorse using ASA to prevent PE in women who are “at risk.” However, data are lacking about the level of absolute risk to warrant starting ASA prophylaxis.

Methods and Findings

We present two approaches for objectively determining the minimum absolute risk for PE at which ASA prophylaxis is justified. The first is a new approach—the minimum control event rate (CER_min). The second approach uses a pre-existing concept—the minimum event rate for treatment (MERT). Here we show how the CER_min is derived, and then use the CER_min and the MERT to guide us to a reasonable risk threshold for starting a woman on ASA prophylaxis against PE based on clinical risk assessment. We suggest that eligible women need not be at “high risk” for preeclampsia to warrant ASA, but rather at some modestly elevated absolute risk of 6–10%.

Conclusions

Given its very low cost, its widespread availability, ease of administration and its safety profile, ASA is a highly attractive agent for the prevention of maternal and perinatal morbidity worldwide.

5-Methyl-tetrahydrofolate in prevention of recurrent preeclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) supplementation in prevention of recurrent preeclampsia.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort of women who received daily oral 5-MTHF 15 mg supplementation as prophylactic treatment since first trimester for recurrent preeclampsia were compared with women who did not. All asymptomatic singleton gestations with prior preeclampsia (in the previous pregnancy) were included. Women with chronic hypertension were excluded. The primary outcome was the incidence of preeclampsia.

RESULTS

Three hundred and three singleton gestation met the inclusion criteria: 157 received 5-MTHF, while 146 did not (control group). Women who received 5-MTHF had a significantly lower incidence of recurrent overall preeclampsia (21.7% versus 39.7%; odds ratio (OR) 0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25, 0.69), severe preeclampsia (3.2% versus 8.9%; OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.12-0.97) and early-onset preeclampsia (1.9% versus 7.5%; OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.07-0.87) compared to control. The intervention group delivered about 10 d after the control and had higher birth weight.

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study showed that women with prior preeclampsia who received daily oral 5-MTHF 15 mg supplementation had a significantly lower incidence of overall preeclampsia, severe preeclampsia and early-onset preeclampsia. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm our findings.

[Cerebral artery thrombosis in pregnancy]

A 28 year old woman, ASA I, who, in the final stages of her pregnancy presented with signs of neural deficit that consisted of distortion of the oral commissure, dysphagia, dysarthria, and weakness on the left side of the body. She was diagnosed with thrombosis in a segment of the right middle cerebral artery which led to an ischemic area in the right frontal lobe. Termination of pregnancy and conservative treatment was decided, with good resolution of the symptoms.

Forms of Circulating Luteinizing Hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Receptor for the Prediction of Early and Late Preeclampsia in the First Trimester of Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To explore the value of circulating luteinizing human chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) forms for the prediction of preeclampsia (PE) in the first trimester of pregnancy.

METHODS

Case-control study, based on a cohort of 5,759 pregnancies, including 20 early PE, 20 late PE, and 300 controls. We recorded/measured maternal characteristics, mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery (UtA) Doppler, placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFtl-1), and LHCGR forms (hCG-LHCGR and soluble LHCGR), and their independent predictive values were analyzed by logistic regression.

RESULTS

For early PE, the model included black ethnicity, chronic hypertension, previous PE, MAP, UtA Doppler, PlGF, sFlt-1, and LHCGR forms, achieving detection rates (DR) of 83% at 10% of false-positive rates (FPR) [AUC: 0.961 (95% CI: 0.921-1)]. For late PE, the model included body mass index, previous PE, UtA Doppler, PlGF, sFlt-1, and LHCGR forms, with DR of 75% at 10% of FPR [AUC: 0.923 (95% CI: 0.871-0.976)]. In both early and late PE, LHCGR forms improved DR by 6-15%.

CONCLUSIONS

LHCGR forms improved the prediction for early and late PE. These results should be confirmed in larger prospective studies.

Update on the pathophysiological implications and clinical role of angiogenic factors in pregnancy

Angiogenic markers are now being incorporated into clinical practice for the screening, diagnosing, and monitoring of preeclampsia. Pregnancy requires both vasculogenesis and angiogenesis in the fetal compartment and angiogenesis in the maternal compartment. Abnormal angiogenesis in the placenta determines impaired remodeling of the maternal spiral arteries and placental underperfusion that may ultimately lead to fetal growth restriction and maternal preeclampsia. The dysregulation of angiogenesis in the placenta and maternal-fetal circulation has emerged as one of the main pathophysiological features in the development of placental insufficiency and its clinical consequences. Abnormal angiogenesis has also been related to other obstetric and fetal conditions such as peripartum cardiomyopathy and fetal cardiac defects. This opens up new challenges for our understanding of angiogenic involvement in maternal cardiovascular function and fetal cardiac development, and it offers new clinical opportunities. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the pathophysiological implications and the clinical role of angiogenic factors in pregnancy.

Aspirin inhibits expression of sFLT1 from human cytotrophoblasts induced by hypoxia, via cyclo-oxygenase 1

INTRODUCTION

Elevated circulating soluble FLT1 (sFLT1) levels seen in preeclampsia may play a role in its development. Aspirin is recommended for prevention of preeclampsia. We hypothesized that aspirin may inhibit the production of sFlt1.

METHODS

Placentas from women with and without preeclampsia were collected. Primary cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) were cultured from normal placentas and treated with aspirin, sc-560, a COX1 inhibitor or celecoxib, a COX2 inhibitor. The expression of sFLT1, FLT1, COX1 and COX2 was studied. The effect of aspirin on sFlt1 expression was also studied in HEK293 cells and in HTR-8/SVNeo cells.

RESULTS

The expression of sFLT1 was increased in preeclamptic placentas compared to control placentas and the expression and release of sFLT1 increased in CTBs exposed to 2% O2 compared to controls. Aspirin at 3 and 12 mM concentration reduced the expression and release of sFLT1 in CTBs. Aspirin also inhibited sFlt1 expression from HTR-8/SVNeo and HEK293 cells. Sc-560, but not celecoxib, reduced sFLT1 expression and release from CTBs. Aspirin and sc-560 also reduced hypoxia-induced FLT1 mRNA expression and inhibited COX1 mRNA in CTBs.

DISCUSSION

This study confirms that sFLT1 expression is increased in preeclamptic placentas and in CTBs exposed to hypoxia. Aspirin inhibits the production sFLT1 in CTBs and in HTR-8/SVNeo. Sc-560 recapitulated the effects of aspirin on sFLT1 expression and release in CTBs suggesting that the aspirin effect may be mediated via inhibition of COX1. The study increases our understanding of the mechanisms regulating sFlt1 expression and provides a plausible explanation for the effect of aspirin to prevent preeclampsia.

15-epi-lipoxin A4 reduces the mortality of prematurely born pups in a mouse model of infection-induced preterm birth

Preterm birth remains the leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity worldwide. There are currently few effective therapies and therefore an urgent need for novel treatments. Although there is much focus on trying to alter gestation of delivery, the primary aim of preterm birth prevention therapies should be to reduce prematurity related mortality and morbidity. Given the link between intrauterine infection and inflammation and preterm labour (PTL), we hypothesized that administration of lipoxins, key anti-inflammatory and pro-resolution mediators, could be a useful novel treatment for PTL. Using a mouse model of infection-induced PTL, we investigated whether 15-epi-lipoxin A₄ could delay lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PTL and reduce pup mortality. On D17 of gestation mice (n = 9–12) were pretreated with vehicle or 15-epi-lipoxin A₄ prior to intrauterine administration of LPS or PBS. Although pretreatment with 15-epi-lipoxin A₄ did not delay LPS-induced PTL, there was a significant reduction in the mortality amongst prematurely delivered pups (defined as delivery within 36 h of surgery) in mice treated with 15-epi-lipoxin A₄ prior to LPS treatment, compared with those receiving LPS alone (P < 0.05). Quantitative real-time (QRT)-PCR analysis of utero-placental tissues harvested 6 h post-treatment demonstrated that 15-epi-lipoxin A₄ treatment increased Ptgs2 expression in the uterus, placenta and fetal membranes (P < 0.05) and decreased 15-Hpgd expression (P < 0.05) in the placenta and uterus, suggesting that 15-epi-lipoxin A₄ may regulate the local production and activity of prostaglandins. These data suggest that augmenting lipoxin levels could be a useful novel therapeutic option in the treatment of PTL, protecting the fetus from the adverse effects of infection-induced preterm birth.