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Kaur L, Puri M, Pal Sachdeva M, Mishra J, Nava Saraswathy K. Maternal one carbon metabolism and interleukin-10 &-17 synergistically influence the mode of delivery in women with Early Onset Pre-Eclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2021; 24:79-89. [PMID: 33765603 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2021.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Studies on One Carbon Metabolism (OCM), Interleukins-10 &-17 (IL-10/-17) & βhCG in pre-eclampsia and its delivery outcome (preterm birth) reveal contradictory results, attributed to clinical heterogeneity (early/late onset pre-eclampsia) or preterm/term birth. Disturbed OCM also influences IL-10 &-17 during pregnancy. We sought to investigate the synergism between OCM and IL-10/-17 mediated immune-regulation through βhCG in Early onset pre-eclampsia (EO-PE) patients, delivering preterm, among North Indian women. STUDY DESIGN Case-control study with a total of 399 pregnant women (EO-PE delivering preterm = 199; Normotensives delivering at term = 200). Maternal genotypes & biochemical estimations along with fetal genotypes on subset (n = 72) pertaining to OCM and IL-10/-17 regulation were assessed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Association of 1) maternal plasma levels with EO-PE 2) maternal and fetal genotypes with EO-PE. 3) Effect of Hyper-homocysteinemia (surrogate of disturbed OCM) on differential immune regulation (IL10,-17, βhCG) in EO-PE and mode of delivery. RESULTS Hyper-homocysteinemia posed an increased risk of three folds for EO-PE. Both, folate and B12 deficiencies were associated with elevated homocysteine in EO-PE. Further, MTHFR 677TT homozygotes was present only in EO-PE indicating its detrimental role. However, maternal IL17-197AA genotype showed decreased risk for EO-PE. Furthermore, elevated maternal plasma IL-17 along with elevated IL-10 & βhCG were observed in EO-PE. Taken together, altered homocysteine metabolism was associated with high IL10 in EO-PE; and was more pronounced in spontaneous vaginal deliveries as compared to induced/caesarean section deliveries. CONCLUSIONS We report homocysteine mediated IL-10 &17 dysregulation and its influence on mode of delivery in EO-PE, possibly through initiation of cervical ripening. Further, these could serve potential biomarkers of EO-PE & its delivery outcome among vulnerable populations with similar nutritional & genetic predispositions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lovejeet Kaur
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, Haryana, India.
| | - Manju Puri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lady Hardinge Medical College, Delhi, India
| | | | - Jyoti Mishra
- Department of Anthropology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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2
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Roh YH, Seo J, Kim JY, Kim HU, Mun SJ, Seo JH, Bong KW. Phosphorylcholine-based encoded hydrogel microparticles with enhanced fouling resistance for multiplex immunoassays. Analyst 2020; 145:5482-5490. [PMID: 32588844 DOI: 10.1039/d0an00808g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Due to the growing interest in multiplex protein detection, encoded hydrogel microparticles have received attention as a possible path to high performance multiplex immunoassays through a combination of high multiplexing capability and enhanced binding kinetics. However, their practical operation in real complex samples is still limited because polyethylene glycol, which is the main component of hydrogel particles, suffers from oxidative damage and relatively high fouling properties in biochemical solutions. Here, we introduce poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC)-based encoded hydrogel microparticles to perform fouling-resistant multiplex immunoassays, where the anti-fouling characteristics are attributed to the zwitterionic PMPC. By applying a newly developed molding lithography technique, viscous PMPCs with low reactivity were successfully incorporated into the hydrogel network while maintaining uniformity and rigidity for use in multiplex immunoassays. Non-specific protein adsorption on the PMPC particles was reduced by about 37.5% compared to that of conventional PEG particles, which leads to better assay sensitivity. We also validate the multiplex capability of the PMPC particles by performing multiplex detection of two target proteins. Furthermore, we verify that the PMPC particles have a 70% enhancement in anti-fouling characteristics compared to PEG particles in human platelet-rich plasma, potentiating a practical immunoassay platform for clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Ho Roh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Korea University, 145, Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Ma Z, Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Mok S, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Mechanobiological regulation of placental trophoblast fusion and function through extracellular matrix rigidity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5837. [PMID: 32246004 PMCID: PMC7125233 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62659-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The syncytiotrophoblast is a multinucleated layer that plays a critical role in regulating functions of the human placenta during pregnancy. Maintaining the syncytiotrophoblast layer relies on ongoing fusion of mononuclear cytotrophoblasts throughout pregnancy, and errors in this fusion process are associated with complications such as preeclampsia. While biochemical factors are known to drive fusion, the role of disease-specific extracellular biophysical cues remains undefined. Since substrate mechanics play a crucial role in several diseases, and preeclampsia is associated with placental stiffening, we hypothesize that trophoblast fusion is mechanically regulated by substrate stiffness. We developed stiffness-tunable polyacrylamide substrate formulations that match the linear elasticity of placental tissue in normal and disease conditions, and evaluated trophoblast morphology, fusion, and function on these surfaces. Our results demonstrate that morphology, fusion, and hormone release is mechanically-regulated via myosin-II; optimal on substrates that match healthy placental tissue stiffness; and dysregulated on disease-like and supraphysiologically-stiff substrates. We further demonstrate that stiff regions in heterogeneous substrates provide dominant physical cues that inhibit fusion, suggesting that even focal tissue stiffening limits widespread trophoblast fusion and tissue function. These results confirm that mechanical microenvironmental cues influence fusion in the placenta, provide critical information needed to engineer better in vitro models for placental disease, and may ultimately be used to develop novel mechanically-mediated therapeutic strategies to resolve fusion-related disorders during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Ma
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Lucas Sagrillo-Fagundes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- INRS-Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie and Réseau Intersectoriel de Recherche en Santé de l'Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Stephanie Mok
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie and Réseau Intersectoriel de Recherche en Santé de l'Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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4
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Murmu S, Dwivedi J. Second-Trimester Maternal Serum Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Lipid Profile as a Predictor of Gestational Hypertension, Preeclampsia, and Eclampsia: A Prospective Observational Study. Int J Appl Basic Med Res 2020; 10:49-53. [PMID: 32002386 PMCID: PMC6967338 DOI: 10.4103/ijabmr.ijabmr_271_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are important complications of pregnancy and are associated with high maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis may improve maternal and perinatal outcome by ensuring appropriate management. Aim: Our aim is to assess the serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and serum lipid profile in the early and late trimesters of at-risk mothers and to analyze whether these parameters can be used to predict pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) and its time of onset. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, India. Two hundred antenatal women were screened for serum beta-hCG and lipid profile in their early (14–18 weeks) and late (24–28 weeks) second trimesters. All patients were followed up till delivery and observed for the development of PIH. Results were evaluated and analyzed statistically. Results: The incidence of PIH in our study was 14.67% (n = 27). Most of the patients had late-onset PIH (88.88%, n = 27), whereas 11.12% (n = 3) had an early onset of the disease. Of 27 patients, 6 patients developed preeclampsia and none had eclampsia. The mean beta-hCG level in the study population at the early second trimester was 91,723.97, whereas in the late second trimester, it was 22,456.25. In PIH patients, a significant increase in the level of serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and very-low-density lipoprotein was noted in both the early and late second trimesters. Conclusion: This study showed that serum beta-hCG and lipid profile in the second trimester are useful indicators to identify women who are likely to develop PIH, preeclampsia, or eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Murmu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India
| | - Jyotsana Dwivedi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India
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5
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Ma Z, Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Tran R, Parameshwar PK, Kalashnikov N, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Biomimetic Micropatterned Adhesive Surfaces To Mechanobiologically Regulate Placental Trophoblast Fusion. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:47810-47821. [PMID: 31773938 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b19906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The placental syncytiotrophoblast is a giant multinucleated cell that forms a tree-like structure and regulates transport between mother and baby during development. It is maintained throughout pregnancy by continuous fusion of trophoblast cells, and disruptions in fusion are associated with considerable adverse health effects including diseases such as preeclampsia. Developing predictive control over cell fusion in culture models is hence of critical importance in placental drug discovery and transport studies, but this can currently be only partially achieved with biochemical factors. Here, we investigate whether biophysical signals associated with budding morphogenesis during development of the placental villous tree can synergistically direct and enhance trophoblast fusion. We use micropatterning techniques to manipulate physical stresses in engineered microtissues and demonstrate that biomimetic geometries simulating budding robustly enhance fusion and alter spatial patterns of synthesis of pregnancy-related hormones. These findings indicate that biophysical signals play a previously unrecognized and significant role in regulating placental fusion and function, in synergy with established soluble signals. More broadly, our studies demonstrate that biomimetic strategies focusing on tissue mechanics can be important approaches to design, build, and test placental tissue cultures for future studies of pregnancy-related drug safety, efficacy, and discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Ma
- Department of Chemical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 0C5 , Canada
| | - Lucas Sagrillo-Fagundes
- Department of Chemical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 0C5 , Canada
- INRS-Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotehnologie and Réseau Intersectoriel de Recherche en Santé de l'Université du Québec , Laval , QC H7V 1B7 , Canada
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment , Université du Québec à Montréal , Montréal , QC H3C 3P8 , Canada
| | - Raymond Tran
- Department of Chemical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 0C5 , Canada
| | - Prabu Karthick Parameshwar
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 2B4 , Canada
| | - Nikita Kalashnikov
- Department of Chemical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 0C5 , Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotehnologie and Réseau Intersectoriel de Recherche en Santé de l'Université du Québec , Laval , QC H7V 1B7 , Canada
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment , Université du Québec à Montréal , Montréal , QC H3C 3P8 , Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Chemical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 0C5 , Canada
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 2B4 , Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre , McGill University , Montréal , QC H3A 1A3 , Canada
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6
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Association between serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin and preeclampsia and its effects on perinatal and maternal outcomes: a case control study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2019; 299:713-718. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-019-05041-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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7
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Lee HJ, Roh YH, Kim HU, Kim SM, Bong KW. Multiplexed immunoassay using post-synthesis functionalized hydrogel microparticles. LAB ON A CHIP 2018; 19:111-119. [PMID: 30498817 DOI: 10.1039/c8lc01160e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In response to a growing demand for simultaneous detection of multiple proteins in a single sample, multiplex immunoassay platforms have emerged at the forefront of proteomic analysis. In particular, detections using graphically encoded hydrogel microparticles synthesized via flow lithography have received attention for integrating a hydrogel, a substrate that can provide enhanced kinetics and high loading capacity, into the bead-based multiplex platform. Currently, the method of microparticle functionalization involves copolymerization of antibodies with the gel during particle synthesis. However, its practical operation is too precarious to be adopted because antibodies are susceptible to aggregation due to incompatibility with hydrophobic photoinitiators used in the photo-induced gel polymerization. In this work, we present a multiplex immunoassay platform that uses encoded hydrogel microparticles that are functionalized after particle synthesis by conjugating antibodies with remnant active groups readily available in the hydrogels. The method not only precludes antibody aggregation but also augments the loading density of the antibodies, which translates into enhanced detection performance. In addition to multiplexing, our platform demonstrates high sensitivity, a broad assay range, and a fast detection rate that outperform the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jee Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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8
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Masoumi Z, Familari M, Källén K, Ranstam J, Olofsson P, Hansson SR. Fetal hemoglobin in umbilical cord blood in preeclamptic and normotensive pregnancies: A cross-sectional comparative study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176697. [PMID: 28453539 PMCID: PMC5409527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is associated with increased fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in the maternal circulation but its source is unknown. To investigate whether excessive HbF is produced in the placenta or the fetus, the concentration of HbF (cHbF) in the arterial and venous umbilical cord blood (UCB) was compared in 15825 normotensive and 444 PE pregnancies. The effect of fetal gender on cHbF was also evaluated in both groups. Arterial and venous UCB sampled immediately after birth at 36-42 weeks of gestation were analyzed for total Hb concentration (ctHb) (g/L) and HbF% using a Radiometer blood gas analyzer. Non-parametric tests were used for statistical comparison and P values < 0.05 were considered significant. Our results indicated higher cHbF in venous compared to arterial UCB in both normotensive (118.90 vs 117.30) and PE (126.75 vs 120.12) groups. In PE compared to normotensive pregnancies, a significant increase was observed in arterial and venous ctHb (171.00 vs 166.00 and 168.00 vs 163.00, respectively) while cHbF was only significantly increased in venous UCB (126.75 vs 118.90). The pattern was similar in both genders. These results indicate a substantial placental contribution to HbF levels in UCB, which increases in PE and is independent of fetal gender, suggesting the elevated cHbF evident in PE results from placental dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Masoumi
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mary Familari
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Karin Källén
- Center for Reproductive Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jonas Ranstam
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Division of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Per Olofsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Stefan R. Hansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Stewart
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Bngham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Center for Uterine Fibroids, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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10
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Díaz P, Sibley CP, Greenwood SL. Oxygen-Sensitive K+ Channels Modulate Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Secretion from Human Placental Trophoblast. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149021. [PMID: 26863525 PMCID: PMC4749290 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a key autocrine/paracrine regulator of placental syncytiotrophoblast, the transport epithelium of the human placenta. Syncytiotrophoblast hCG secretion is modulated by the partial pressure of oxygen (pO2), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and potassium (K+) channels. Here we test the hypothesis that K+ channels mediate the effects of pO2 and ROS on hCG secretion. Placental villous explants from normal term pregnancies were cultured for 6 days at 6% (normoxia), 21% (hyperoxia) or 1% (hypoxia) pO2. On days 3–5, explants were treated with 5mM 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) or tetraethylammonium (TEA), blockers of pO2-sensitive voltage-gated K+ (KV) channels, or ROS (10–1000μM H2O2). hCG secretion and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, a marker of necrosis, were determined daily. At day 6, hCG and LDH were measured in tissue lysate and 86Rb (K+) efflux assessed to estimate syncytiotrophoblast K+ permeability. hCG secretion and 86Rb efflux were significantly greater in explants maintained in 21% pO2 than normoxia. 4-AP/TEA inhibited hCG secretion to a greater extent at 21% than 6% and 1% pO2, and reduced 86Rb efflux at 21% but not 6% pO2. LDH release and tissue LDH/hCG were similar in 6%, 21% and 1% pO2 and unaffected by 4-AP/TEA. H2O2 stimulated 86Rb efflux and hCG secretion at normoxia but decreased 86Rb efflux, without affecting hCG secretion, at 21% pO2. 4-AP/TEA-sensitive K+ channels participate in pO2-sensitive hCG secretion from syncytiotrophoblast. ROS effects on both hCG secretion and 86Rb efflux are pO2-dependent but causal links between the two remain to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Díaz
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Colin P. Sibley
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susan L. Greenwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
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11
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Åsvold BO, Eskild A, Vatten LJ. Human chorionic gonadotropin, angiogenic factors, and preeclampsia risk: a nested case-control study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2014; 93:454-62. [DOI: 10.1111/aogs.12363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bjørn O. Åsvold
- Department of Public Health; Norwegian University of Science and Technology; Trondheim Norway
- Department of Endocrinology; Trondheim University Hospital; Trondheim Norway
| | - Anne Eskild
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Akershus University Hospital and Institute of Clinical Medicine; University of Oslo; Lørenskog Norway
- Division of Mental Health; Norwegian Institute of Public Health; Oslo Norway
| | - Lars J. Vatten
- Department of Public Health; Norwegian University of Science and Technology; Trondheim Norway
- Department of Epidemiology; Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts USA
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12
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Kaur G, Jain V, Mehta S, Himani S. Prediction of PIH by Maternal Serum Beta HCG Levels in the Second Trimester (13-20 Weeks) of Pregnancy. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2013; 62:32-4. [PMID: 23372286 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-012-0151-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2010] [Accepted: 02/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that women with high serum beta-HCG levels in early pregnancy are at higher risk of developing PIH. METHODS Serum beta-HCG estimation was done by CLIA method in 200 women between 13 and 20 weeks of gestation, selected randomly for this study from July 2008 to Aug 2009. Multiple of median (MOM) was calculated from charts of norms available for that week of pregnancy. They were followed till delivery for development of PIH and pregnancy outcome and results analysed statistically with Chi-square test and Z test. RESULTS Out of 200 cases, 178 (89 %) were finally evaluated. Of whom 22 (12.36 %) cases developed PIH. Beta HCG levels were considered raised if the levels were >2MOM.20 (83.33 %) out of 24 cases with beta HCG levels >2MOM developed PIH against 2 (1.2 %) cases out of 154 having beta HCG levels ≤2 MOM (P value <0.001). Also, higher levels of beta HCG are associated with increased severity of PIH (P value <0.01). The sensitivity was 90.91 %, specificity was 97.44 % and positive predictive value was 83.33 %. CONCLUSION The study concluded that the serum beta HCG estimation at mid trimester (13-20 weeks) is a good predictor of PIH and higher levels of beta HCG are associated with increased severity of PIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurmandeep Kaur
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Mahila Chikitsalaya S.M.S. Medical College, Jaipur, 302 004 India
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13
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Flores-Martín J, Rena V, Márquez S, Panzetta-Dutari GM, Genti-Raimondi S. StarD7 knockdown modulates ABCG2 expression, cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation of human choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e44152. [PMID: 22952907 PMCID: PMC3430668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background StAR-related lipid transfer domain containing 7 (StarD7) is a member of the START-domain protein family whose function still remains unclear. Our data from an explorative microarray assay performed with mRNAs from StarD7 siRNA-transfected JEG-3 cells indicated that ABCG2 (ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 2) was one of the most abundantly downregulated mRNAs. Methodology/Principal Findings Here, we have confirmed that knocking down StarD7 mRNA lead to a decrease in the xenobiotic/lipid transporter ABCG2 at both the mRNA and protein levels (−26.4% and −41%, p<0.05, at 48 h of culture, respectively). Also a concomitant reduction in phospholipid synthesis, bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) uptake and 3H-thymidine incorporation was detected. Wound healing and transwell assays revealed that JEG-3 cell migration was significantly diminished (p<0.05). Conversely, biochemical differentiation markers such as human chorionic gonadotrophin β-subunit (βhCG) protein synthesis and secretion as well as βhCG and syncytin-1 mRNAs were increased approximately 2-fold. In addition, desmoplakin immunostaining suggested that there was a reduction of intercellular desmosomes between adjacent JEG-3 cells after knocking down StarD7. Conclusions/Significance Altogether these findings provide evidence for a role of StarD7 in cell physiology indicating that StarD7 modulates ABCG2 multidrug transporter level, cell migration, proliferation, and biochemical and morphological differentiation marker expression in a human trophoblast cell model.
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MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Member 2
- ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters/genetics
- ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters/metabolism
- Biomarkers/metabolism
- Carrier Proteins/genetics
- Carrier Proteins/metabolism
- Cell Differentiation/genetics
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement/genetics
- Cell Proliferation
- Choriocarcinoma/genetics
- Choriocarcinoma/pathology
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/genetics
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Gene Knockdown Techniques
- Gene Products, env/genetics
- Gene Products, env/metabolism
- Gene Silencing
- Giant Cells/metabolism
- Humans
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Phospholipids/biosynthesis
- Pregnancy Proteins/genetics
- Pregnancy Proteins/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism
- Up-Regulation/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Jésica Flores-Martín
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Viviana Rena
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Sebastián Márquez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Graciela M. Panzetta-Dutari
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Susana Genti-Raimondi
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Kalinderis M, Papanikolaou A, Kalinderi K, Ioannidou E, Giannoulis C, Karagiannis V, Tarlatzis BC. Elevated Serum Levels of Interleukin-6, Interleukin-1β and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Pre-eclampsia. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66:468-75. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01019.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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15
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Huisman MA, Timmer A, Aarnoudse JG, Erwich JJHM. Apoptosis and proliferation in first trimester trophoblast of further complicated and uncomplicated pregnancies related to maternal serum screening markers. Pregnancy Hypertens 2011; 1:170-5. [PMID: 26104499 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2011.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Accepted: 01/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Differences in proliferation and apoptosis in term trophoblast as well as maternal serum markers (MSM) for Down's syndrome in early pregnancy are related to adverse pregnancy outcomes. We investigated proliferation and apoptosis in first trimester chorionic villous sampling (CVS) as well as MSM and related these to pregnancy outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS We selected 51 samples of first trimester chorionic villi of pregnancies later complicated by hypertensive disorders (HD) (n=36) and intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) (n=15) with matched controls. Immunohistochemistry (cleaved caspase-3 for apoptosis and MIB-1 for proliferation) was performed. Apoptosis- (AI) and proliferation-index (PI) were determined and proliferation-apoptosis index (PA) was calculated by PI/AI. First trimester serum screening (n=39), samples taken at the time of CVS (n=108) or regular second trimester serum screening samples (n=99) were examined. RESULTS The IUGR group compared to the hypertensive disorders group shows an increase of AI (p<0.05) and decrease in PA (p<0.03). Correlation is seen between PAPP-A and PI, AFP and AI and hCG and PA (all p<0.05). CONCLUSION Proliferation and apoptosis differ already in first trimester placentas of pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders or IUGR. Serum screening markers show correlation with proliferation and apoptosis and a subsequent adverse pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique A Huisman
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Albertus Timmer
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan G Aarnoudse
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Jaap H M Erwich
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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Vidyabati RK, Hijam D, Singh NK, Singh WG. Serum ßhCG and lipid profile in early second trimester as predictors of pregnancy induced hypertension. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s13224-010-0008-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
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Marino GI, Castro-Parodi M, Dietrich V, Damiano AE. High levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) correlate with increased aquaporin-9 (AQP9) expression in explants from human preeclamptic placenta. Reprod Sci 2010; 17:444-53. [PMID: 20220109 DOI: 10.1177/1933719110361385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblastic abnormalities have a central role in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, and some placental hormones, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), could affect the placental function. Here, we hypothesized that the elevated serum levels of hCG may be involved in the increased aquaporin-9 (AQP9) protein expression in preeclamptic placentas via adenosine 3('),5(')-cyclic phosphate (cAMP) pathways. Normal placental explants were cultured with different concentrations of recombinant hCG or 8-Br-cAMP, a potent analogue of cAMP. We evaluated AQP9 protein expression and localization. After both treatments, we localized AQP9 in the apical membrane of syncytiotrophoblast and in the cytoplasm. We also observed a concentration-dependent effect on AQP9 protein expression. In addition, water uptake increased 1.6-fold in explants treated with hCG. Our results suggest that hCG may increase AQP9 protein expression and functionality via cAMP pathways. Although, in preeclamptic placentas high levels of hCG may upregulate AQP9 protein expression, AQP9 functionality was reduced possibly by other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela I Marino
- Laboratorio de Canales iónicos-Neurofisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A. Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Argentina
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Gurbuz A, Karateke A, Mengulluoglu M, Gedikbasi A, Ozturkmen M, Kabaca C, Sahinoglu Z. Can Serum HCG Values Be Used in the Differential Diagnosis of Pregnancy Complicated by Hypertension? Hypertens Pregnancy 2009; 23:1-12. [PMID: 15117595 DOI: 10.1081/prg-120028276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of our study is to determine whether the serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level is helpful in the differential diagnosis and in the clinical management and follow-up of preeclampsia, superimposed preeclampsia, and chronic hypertension during the third trimester. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eighty hypertensive pregnant patients, who had been hospitalized, and 25 normotensive pregnant patients, who attended the outpatient perinatology clinic in Zeynep Kamil Women and Pediatric Diseases Education and Research Hospital between June 2001 and September 2001 were enrolled in the study. These patients were evaluated in five groups: mild preeclamptic, severe preeclamptic, superimposed preeclamptic, chronic hypertensive, and normotensive groups. The geometric means of hCG levels of these groups were compared with each other and cutoff levels for differential diagnosis were determined. RESULTS The geometric mean of hCG levels was established as 17,361.31 mIU/mL in the mild preeclamptic group, 49,817.59 mIU/mL in the severe preeclamptic group, 41,101.09 mIU/mL in the superimposed preeclamptic group, 12,558.57 mIU/mL in the chronic hypertensive group, and 9647.98 mIU/mL in the normotensive group. When the geometric mean of the severe preeclamptic group was compared with the results of the normotensive patients, mild preeclamptic patients, chronic hypertensive patients, and superimposed preeclamptic patients, the mean hCG value of severe preeclamptic group was statistically significantly higher than all of the other groups (p < 0.001) except for the latter. The geometric mean of hCG levels of severe preeclamptic patients was compared with the geometric mean of hCG levels of superimposed preeclamptic patients (p > 0.05). The geometric mean of hCG levels in the chronic hypertensive group was lower than that of the superimposed preeclamptic group and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The geometric mean of hCG levels of the chronic hypertensive group was not significantly different from the results of the mild preeclamptic group and the normotensive group. There was, however, a statistically significant difference between the geometric means of hCG levels of mild preeclamptic patients and normotensive group (p < 0.001). The cutoff value of hCG was determined as 25,000 mIU/mL in differentiation of chronic hypertension from the severe preeclampsia, as 20,000 mIU/mL in differentiation of chronic hypertension from the superimposed preeclampsia, and as 30,000 mIU/mL in differentiation of severe preeclampsia from mild preeclampsia. CONCLUSION The maternal serum hCG level is a useful laboratory tool when managing and treating hypertensive disorders that complicate pregnancy. The serum hCG level is especially significant in severe preeclampsia and superimposed preeclampsia. Therefore, a high serum hCG level can be a helpful marker in the diagnosis and clinical management by preventing possible complications resulting from severe and superimposed preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Gurbuz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zeynep Kamil Women and Pediatric Diseases Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Kiss H, Strohmer H, Mittermayer F, Leitinger N, Reisenberger K, Egarter C, Sinzinger H. Thromboxane and Prostacyclin Production of Trophoblast Cells After Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Incubation. Hypertens Pregnancy 2009. [DOI: 10.3109/10641959809072242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Elevated Serum Levels of Interleukin-15, Interleukin-16, and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Women With Preeclampsia. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2009; 31:142-8. [DOI: 10.1016/s1701-2163(16)34098-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Pettersson A, Richiardi L, Cnattingius S, Kaijser M, Akre O. Gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and risk of testicular cancer. Cancer Res 2008; 68:8832-6. [PMID: 18974126 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-08-2309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Altered levels of pregnancy hormones have been suggested to initiate testicular cancer prenatally in the male fetus. The placenta is the main source of pregnancy hormones, and pregnancy hypertension and preeclampsia are associated with placental malfunction, including altered levels of hormones such as estrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin. We therefore evaluated fetal exposure to pregnancy hypertension and preeclampsia in relation to risk of testicular cancer in adolescent and adult life. We identified 293 cases of germ cell testicular cancer in the Swedish Cancer Register, and 861 controls in the Swedish Medical Birth Register. The standardized antenatal and delivery charts of the cases and controls were traced in the archives of the delivery units, and information about maternal and pregnancy characteristics such as gestational hypertension, proteinuria, anemia, and glucosuria were extracted. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using conditional logistic regression. We found a strongly decreased risk of testicular cancer among subjects exposed to severe gestational hypertension (OR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.12-0.74, compared with no hypertension), whereas the risk was increased among those exposed to mild gestational hypertension (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 0.98-2.69) during the fetal period. The mechanism behind the association between pregnancy hypertension and testicular cancer is unclear, but our findings may reflect a potentially protective effect of the altered pregnancy hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin that occur in severe gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Pettersson
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Serum uric acid levels correlate with plasma hydrogen peroxide and protein carbonyl levels in preeclampsia. Am J Hypertens 2008; 21:1343-6. [PMID: 18802427 DOI: 10.1038/ajh.2008.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased serum uric acid has been postulated to directly promote oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate whether serum uric acid level correlated with superoxide generation and oxidative stress in preeclampsia. METHODS We assessed serum uric acid levels, plasma hydrogen peroxide levels, and plasma protein carbonyl levels in normal pregnant (n = 14) and preeclamptic women (n = 17). Serum uric acid and plasma hydrogen peroxide levels were determined by the uricase-peroxidase method, a combined enzymatic-colorimetric method. Plasma carbonyl levels were measured by ELISA. RESULTS The mean serum uric acid values were significantly elevated in preeclampsia (6.6 +/- 1.5 mg/dl) compared with normal pregnancy (4.0 +/- 0.7 mg/dl) (P < 0.001). Plasma protein carbonyl levels were also significantly elevated in preeclampsia (7.72 +/- 4.10 nmol/mg) compared with normal pregnancy (2.85 +/- 3.06 nmol/mg) (P = 0.0011). In addition, the plasma hydrogen peroxide levels were significantly higher in preeclampsia (66.9 +/- 10.9 micromol/l) compared with normal pregnancy (50.1 +/- 5.6 micromol/l) (P < 0.001). Serum uric acid levels correlated significantly and positively with plasma hydrogen peroxide levels (r(2) = 0.2965, P = 0.0027) and plasma protein carbonyl levels (r(2) = 0.2011, P = 0.0129). CONCLUSION The increased serum uric acid levels correlated closely with plasma hydrogen peroxide levels and plasma protein carbonyl levels in preeclampsia. Therefore, the serum uric acid level serves as an indicator of the underlying oxidative stress in preeclampsia.
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Casart YC, Tarrazzi K, Camejo MI. Serum levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-1beta and human chorionic gonadotropin in pre-eclamptic and normal pregnancy. Gynecol Endocrinol 2007; 23:300-3. [PMID: 17558690 DOI: 10.1080/09513590701327638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies in placentas from the first trimester and in vitro models indicate that interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-6 induce the release of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). During pre-eclampsia there is an increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines; however, its relationship with hCG levels during the third trimester of pregnancy has not been determined. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between blood levels of IL-6, IL-1beta and hCG in normal pregnancy and pre-eclampsia. Blood samples during the third trimester of pregnancy from women with severe pre-eclampsia (n = 20) or normal pregnancy (n = 20) were assayed for hCG by immunoassay, IL-6 and IL-1beta by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum level of IL-6 was significantly higher in pre-eclamptic than in normal women (16.5 +/- 2.1 vs. 4.9 +/- 1.1 pg/ml); however, IL-1beta was similar in both groups. Although hCG was higher in pre-eclampsia than normal pregnancy, the difference was not statistically significant. Furthermore, IL-1beta in normal pregnancy was correlated negatively with hCG (r = -0.69, p < 0.001). In conclusion, serum levels of IL-6 were increased in pre-eclampsia but were not correlated with hCG or IL-1beta; however, in normal pregnancy there was a negative correlation between IL-1beta and hCG. The interaction between IL-1beta and hCG at the third trimester needs to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ysabel C Casart
- Escuela de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
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Reisinger K, Baal N, McKinnon T, Münstedt K, Zygmunt M. The gonadotropins: tissue-specific angiogenic factors? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007; 269:65-80. [PMID: 17349737 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2006.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2006] [Revised: 11/01/2006] [Accepted: 11/01/2006] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The gonadotropins, whose members are human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), lutenizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are a well characterized hormone family known to regulate reproductive functions in both females and males. Recent studies indicate that they can modulate the vascular system of reproductive organs. It was shown that gonadotropins not only influence the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and both its receptors VEGFR-1 and -2, but also modulate other ubiquitously expressed angiogenic factors like the angiopoietins and their receptor Tie-2, basic fibroblast growth factor or placental-derived growth factor. Some recent data indicates a possible direct action of gonadotropins on endothelial cells. Thus, the gonadotropins act as tissue-specific angiogenic factors providing an optimal vascular supply during the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy in the female reproductive tract as well as in testis. In pathological conditions (e.g. preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, ovarian hyperstimulation or endometriosis), these tightly regulated interactions between the gonadotropins and the ubiquitous angiogenic factors appear to be disturbed. The intent of this short manuscript is to review the current knowledge of the regulatory role of the gonadotropins in vasculo- and angiogenesis. We also review angiogenic actions of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a glycoprotein closely related to gonadotropins, which display strong gonodal actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Reisinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Giessen, Klinikstrasse 32, 35385 Giessen, Germany
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Kharfi Aris A, Leblanc S, Ouellet A, Moutquin JM. Dual action of H2O2 on placental hCG secretion: Implications for oxidative stress in preeclampsia. Clin Biochem 2007; 40:94-7. [PMID: 17150203 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2006.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2006] [Revised: 09/21/2006] [Accepted: 10/05/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our previously published findings showed that circulating levels of H(2)O(2) were increased and correlated with high levels of hCG in women with preeclampsia, suggesting that oxidative stress modulates placental hormone synthesis. The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the effects of H(2)O(2) on placental secretion of hCG. DESIGN AND METHODS In vitro trophoblasts were stimulated with increasing concentrations of H(2)O(2) and the de novo hCG secretion was assayed. RESULTS Stimulation with low concentrations of H(2)O(2) (1-50 microM) enhances cytotrophoblastic hCG secretion, whereas concentrations of H(2)O(2) >50 microM reduce hCG secretion in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Our findings emphasize that: (1) H(2)O(2) may have dual action on placental activity and acts not only as a cytotoxic mediator, but also as a signaling molecule able to induce hCG secretion; (2) hCG may be a protective antioxidant released by the placenta to counter low oxidative stress challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Kharfi Aris
- Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke. 3001, 12(e) Avenue Nord, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4.
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Fujikura T, Mukai M. Syncytiotrophoblastic vesicles in placental intervillous space. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2006; 195:304-7. [PMID: 16813758 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2006.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2005] [Revised: 12/14/2005] [Accepted: 01/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to investigate the origin and function of vesicles found in the intervillous space. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective study was performed by using placental sections of different gestational ages. The number of vesicles was counted in each section of gestational age groups. Immunohistochemical staining for beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) and human placental lactogen (hPL) was conducted to confirm the origin of vesicles. RESULTS Staining for beta-hCG and hPL was prominent in vesicles separating from syncytiotrophoblast into the intervillous space. The numbers of vesicles were not significantly different in gestational age groups of 42 to 30 weeks and all vesicles disappeared in 9- to 5-week groups. Large vesicles tended to show degeneration and disintegration in the intervillous space. CONCLUSION The vesicles containing beta-hCG and hPL suggest a different secretory mechanism of syncytiotrophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshio Fujikura
- Department of Pathology, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
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Spencer K, Yu CKH, Savvidou M, Papageorghiou AT, Nicolaides KH. Prediction of pre-eclampsia by uterine artery Doppler ultrasonography and maternal serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A, free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, activin A and inhibin A at 22 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks' gestation. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2006; 27:658-63. [PMID: 16493628 DOI: 10.1002/uog.2676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the potential value of combining uterine artery Doppler ultrasonography with the measurement of maternal serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG), activin A and inhibin A at 22 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks' gestation, in the prediction of pregnancies that subsequently develop pre-eclampsia. METHODS The maternal serum PAPP-A, free beta-hCG, activin A and inhibin A concentrations at 22 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks' gestation were measured in samples obtained from women with singleton pregnancies who participated in a screening study for pre-eclampsia by transvaginal color flow Doppler measurement of the uterine artery pulsatility index (PI). A search was made of the database to identify those who subsequently developed pre-eclampsia (n = 24) and a group of controls with normal outcome (n = 144). Regression analysis was performed to establish any relationship between the biochemical markers themselves and between the biochemical markers and uterine artery mean PI. A multivariate Gaussian model combining various biochemical markers with uterine artery mean PI was developed using standard statistical modeling techniques and the performance of such models in discriminating cases with pre-eclampsia was evaluated by receiver-operating characteristics curve (ROC) analysis. RESULTS In the pre-eclampsia group, compared to the controls, the uterine artery mean PI and the maternal serum levels of PAPP-A, free beta-hCG, activin A and inhibin A were significantly increased. The predicted detection rates of pre-eclampsia, for a false positive rate of 5%, was 50% by uterine artery mean PI, 5% by PAPP-A, 10% by free beta-hCG, 35% by inhibin A and 44% by activin A. Screening by a combination of uterine artery mean PI and maternal serum activin A and inhibin A could detect 75% and 92% of patients who subsequently developed pre-eclampsia, for false positive rates of 5% and 10%, respectively. CONCLUSION Screening for pre-eclampsia by uterine artery PI at 22 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks' gestation can be improved by measurement of activin A and inhibin A levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Spencer
- Prenatal Screening Unit, Clinical Biochemistry Department, Harold Wood Hospital, Romford, UK.
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Kharfi A, Giguère Y, De Grandpré P, Moutquin JM, Forest JC. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may be a marker of systemic oxidative stress in normotensive and preeclamptic term pregnancies. Clin Biochem 2005; 38:717-21. [PMID: 15904911 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2005.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2005] [Revised: 04/19/2005] [Accepted: 04/25/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In vitro studies on placental function have revealed interactions between levels of secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) by trophoblastic cells and oxidative stress generated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Here, we have examined the relationship between maternal levels of hCG and H2O2 in vivo in term pregnancies with and without preeclampsia. DESIGN AND METHODS We measured serum levels of hCG and H2O2 in twenty preeclamptic and twenty normotensive term pregnant women (controls), using an enzymatic immunoassay and an electrochemical method, respectively. RESULTS Higher levels of serum hCG and H2O2 were observed in patients with preeclampsia in comparison to controls. A significant positive correlation between serum hCG concentration and H2O2 production was found. CONCLUSION Our results show that: (1) systemic hCG levels are correlated with an oxidative stress state in term pregnant women with preeclampsia and (2) circulating hCG may be a monitoring tool of oxidative stress during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelaziz Kharfi
- Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke. 3001, 12(e)Avenue Nord, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
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Ay E, Kavak ZN, Elter K, Gokaslan H, Pekin T. Screening for pre-eclampsia by using maternal serum inhibin A, activin A, human chorionic gonadotropin, unconjugated estriol, and alpha-fetoprotein levels and uterine artery Doppler in the second trimester of pregnancy. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2005; 45:283-8. [PMID: 16029293 DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-828x.2005.00412.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To analyse the predictive power of maternal serum inhibin A, activin A, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), unconjugated estriol (uE(3)), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels and uterine artery Doppler in the second trimester of pregnancy in screening for pre-eclampsia. METHODS Maternal serum inhibin A, activin A, hCG, uE(3), and AFP levels and uterine artery Doppler were determined in 178 healthy, pregnant women in the second trimester of pregnancy. Serum samples were collected between the 16th and 18th weeks of gestation, and Doppler investigation was performed between the 24th and 26th weeks of gestation. Receiver operating characteristic curves were created to analyse the predictive powers of the above parameters in screening for pre-eclampsia. Different combinations also were analysed. RESULTS The rate of pre-eclampsia was 7.9% (14/178). Maternal serum inhibin A, activin A, hCG, AFP levels, the rate of presence of the prediastolic notch and uterine artery resistance index (RI) values in pre-eclamptic pregnancies were significantly higher than those in healthy pregnancies. Presence of the prediastolic notch, uterine artery RI, maternal serum activin A and inhibin A levels had high predictive efficacy, and each had a sensitivity between 70 and 93% and a specificity between 87% and 98%. The addition of inhibin A or activin A measurement to the Doppler velocimetry improved the specificity to 99-100%. CONCLUSIONS Maternal serum inhibin A and activin A levels and uterine artery Doppler appear to be useful screening tests during the second trimester for pre-eclampsia. However, addition of these hormonal markers to Doppler velocimetry only slightly improves the predictive efficacy, which appears clinically insignificant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Ay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Brajenović-Milić B, Tislarić D, Zuvić-Butorac M, Bacić J, Petrović O, Ristić S, Mimica M, Kapović M. Elevated second-trimester free beta-hCG as an isolated finding and pregnancy outcomes. Fetal Diagn Ther 2005; 19:483-7. [PMID: 15539871 DOI: 10.1159/000080159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2003] [Accepted: 10/02/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between unexplained elevated second-trimester free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) levels and pregnancy complications as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS The study cohort comprised 2,110 non-smoking women with chromosomal and structurally normal fetuses at low-risk for both Down's syndrome (risk <1:250) and neural tube defects (maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein <2.0 MoM). A free beta-hCG value of > or =2.0 MoM was used to define the populations with elevated levels of free beta-hCG. Descriptive statistics, chi2 test, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS The mean maternal age of the study group was significantly lower than in controls (27.9 +/- 4.3 and 30.6 +/- 5.1 years, respectively, p < 0.05), while the proportion of primigravidas was significantly higher compared to that of controls (p < 0.05). After adjustment of the 2 groups according to maternal age and parity, we observed an increased incidence of preeclampsia among women with elevated free beta-hCG levels in relation to controls (p < 0.05). However, a logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the free beta-hCG level was not a predictor of the occurrence of preeclampsia. No significant relationship was found with the incidence of gestational diabetes, oligohydramnios, polyhydramnios, pregnancy-related hypertension, intrauterine growth retardation, preterm delivery, spontaneous abortion and stillbirths (p > 0.05).
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Liu SSA, Lee FK, Lee JL, Tsai MS, Cheong ML, She BQ, Chen SC. Pregnancy outcomes in unselected singleton pregnant women with an increased risk of first-trimester Down's syndrome. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2004; 83:1130-4. [PMID: 15548144 DOI: 10.1111/j.0001-6349.2004.00425.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to assess outcomes in pregnancies with a positive screen of first-trimester combined test (nuchal translucency, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A and free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin). METHODS Using a cut-off level of 1 in 270, 216 (7.1%) women had a positive screen. Among them, 187 delivered their babies in our hospital and the adverse outcomes, such as spontaneous abortion, intrauterine fetal demize, preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes, preterm labor, intrauterine growth restriction, gestational hypertensive disorders, placenta previa, chromosomal abnormalities and fetal structural anomalies, were identified and compared with the 2097 women who screened negative for Down's syndrome. RESULTS Pregnancies with a positive screen had a significantly higher risk of adverse outcomes than those with negative screens (30.5% versus 15.3%; odds ratio 2.4; p < 0.001), especially for those complicated by spontaneous abortion (odds ratio 11.4; p < 0.05) and placenta previa (odds ratio 4.3; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Besides fetal chromosomal abnormalities and structural abnormalities, pregnancies with a positive screen for Down's syndrome in the first-trimester had a significantly higher incidence of subsequent adverse obstetric outcomes.
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Ilagan JG, Stamilio DM, Ural SH, Macones GA, Odibo AO. Abnormal multiple marker screens are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in cases of intrauterine growth restriction. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2004; 191:1465-9. [PMID: 15507984 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2004.05.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine if abnormal multiple marker screens (MMS) are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) pregnancies. STUDY DESIGN This was a case control study of IUGR pregnancies (birth weight <10th percentile for gestational age [GA]) delivered in our unit over 6 years. Cases were compared with controls for the association between abnormal MMS and adverse perinatal outcomes (APO). RESULTS Of the 261 IUGR pregnancies, 39 (16%) had at least 1 APO. An elevated HCG was significantly associated with an APO (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1-6.4). A low uE3 was also associated with an APO (OR 5.5, 95% CI 2.2-14). The association between an elevated AFP and APO was not statistically significant (OR 1.6, 95% CI, 0.6-4.6). CONCLUSION An elevated HCG and low uE3 were associated with APO in cases of IUGR. This information could be useful in identifying a subset of IUGR cases deserving closer surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- John G Ilagan
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Shenhav S, Gemer O, Volodarsky M, Zohav E, Segal S. Midtrimester triple test levels in women with severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2003; 82:912-5. [PMID: 12956840 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0412.2003.00250.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The levels of midtrimester triple test constituents are known to be altered in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to determine whether midtrimester triple test constituent levels differ in women with severe preeclampsia and those who also develop HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count) syndrome. METHODS A retrospective chart analysis of 106 women with severe preeclampsia for whom midtrimester triple test data were available was made. None of these patients had fetuses with abnormal karyotype, nor did they deliver infants with malformations. The levels of midtrimester maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (MShCG) and unconjugated estriol (MSuE3) of 74 patients with severe preeclampsia were compared with those of 32 patients who also developed HELLP syndrome. RESULTS The mean MShCG was significantly higher and the mean MSuE3 was significantly lower in patients with HELLP syndrome than in those with only severe preeclampsia [1.78 multiple of the medians (MoM), standard error (SE) 0.18 vs. 1.27 MoM, SE 0.07, p=0.015 and 0.86 MoM, SE 0.05 vs. 1.04 MoM, SE 0.07; p = 0.03, respectively]. The two groups did not differ significantly with regard to MSAFP levels. CONCLUSION Unexplained high levels of midtrimester MShCG and low levels of MSuE3 may be associated with the development of HELLP syndrome in women with severe preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Shenhav
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barzilai Medical Center, The Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Ashkelon, Israel
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Davidson EJ, Riley SC, Roberts SA, Shearing CH, Groome NP, Martin CW. Maternal serum activin, inhibin, human chorionic gonadotrophin and alpha-fetoprotein as second trimester predictors of pre-eclampsia. BJOG 2003. [DOI: 10.1046/j.1471-0528.2003.02037.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Reis FM, D'Antona D, Petraglia F. Predictive value of hormone measurements in maternal and fetal complications of pregnancy. Endocr Rev 2002; 23:230-57. [PMID: 11943744 DOI: 10.1210/edrv.23.2.0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine tissues (placenta, amnion, chorion, decidua) express hormones and cytokines that play a decisive role in maternal-fetal physiological interactions. The excessive or deficient release of some placental hormones in association with gestational diseases may reflect an abnormal differentiation of the placenta, an impaired fetal metabolism, or an adaptive response of the feto-placental unit to adverse conditions. This review is focused on the applicability of hormone measurements in the risk assessment, early diagnosis, and management of pregnancies complicated by Down's syndrome, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and diabetes mellitus. Combined hormonal tests or the combination of hormones and ultrasound may achieve reasonable sensitivity, but research continues to simplify the screening programs without sacrificing their accuracy. Only in a few instances is there sufficient evidence to firmly recommend the routine use of hormone tests to predict maternal and fetal complications, but the judicious use of selected tests may enhance the sensitivity of the risk assessment based solely on clinical and ultrasound examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando M Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30130-100, Brazil
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Bioactivity of Serum hCG in Preeclampsia. Obstet Gynecol 2001. [DOI: 10.1097/00006250-200109000-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Antsaklis AJ, Papantoniou NE, Daskalakis GJ, Mesogitis SA, Kitmirides SJ, Michalas SS. False positive serum biochemical screening and subsequent fetal loss in women less than 35 years of age. BJOG 2001; 108:589-93. [PMID: 11426892 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2001.00137.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the fetal loss rate in women younger than 35 years of age following a false positive serum biochemical screening. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of case records between 1991 and 1998. SETTING Fetal medicine unit of a large teaching hospital. POPULATION Four hundred and fifty-six women with singleton pregnancies and false positive serum biochemical screening for Down's Syndrome (study group). Nine hundred and twelve matched controls with true negative serum biochemical screening (control group). METHODS Women of both groups had a second trimester serum screening for Down's Syndrome using alpha fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and unconjugated oestriol (uE3); and they also underwent genetic amniocentesis. RESULTS The overall fetal loss rate in the study group was 5.3% (24/456), compared with 1.65% (15/912) in the control group RR 3.2, 95% CI 1.7-5.99; P < 0.001). The majority of fetal losses in the study group occurred after 28 weeks, while in the controls this happened between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. CONCLUSIONS A false positive serum biochemical screening in women under 35 years of age is associated with a threefold increased risk of subsequent fetal loss. However, most of fetal losses in this group occurred after 28 weeks, indicating that intensive antepartum fetal surveillance could improve the perinatal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Antsaklis
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fetal Medicine Unit, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, Greece
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False positive serum biochemical screening and subsequent fetal loss in women less than 35 years of age. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s0306-5456(00)00137-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Merviel P, Müller F, Guibourdenche J, Berkane N, Gaudet R, Bréart G, Uzan S. Correlations between serum assays of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and human placental lactogen (hPL) and pre-eclampsia or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) among nulliparas younger than 38 years. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2001; 95:59-67. [PMID: 11267722 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-2115(00)00370-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the relation between serum human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) levels measured at 15-18 weeks and gestational disorders, assess their correlation with the artery uteroplacental Doppler (AUD) at 24 weeks among nulliparas, and assess the predictivity of the hCG/hPL (human placental lactogen) ratio for pre-eclampsia. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study of two groups of women younger than 38 years old: one with an elevated serum hCG level (2 MoM (multiples of the median) or more) and a normal fetal karyotype (group A), and the other with a lower hCG level (group B). Within each group, we studied the nulliparas separately (respectively groups AO and BO). We analyzed the double screening, elevated hCG levels with abnormal AUD, for the predicting of hypertensive disorders. RESULTS Elevated hCG levels were significantly (p<0.05) more prevalent among women who developed gestational diabetes (groups A and AO) and among nulliparas with pregnancy-induced hypertension and pre-eclampsia (AO). Among nulliparas, the combination of the hCG assay and a subsequent Doppler increased the positive predictive value (PPV) of the assay from 19 to 75%, without reducing its negative predictive value (NPV) for gestational vascular disorders. The hCG/hPL ratio did not improve the predictivity of the hCG assay alone for pre-eclampsia. CONCLUSIONS An hCG level of 2 MoM or more at 15-18 weeks identifies a group of women at risk of gestational vascular disorders; it therefore ought to lead to an AUD at 24 weeks. This double screening should be able to define a population of women at risk of developing a hypertensive disorder, who could thus benefit from a preventive treatment, as aspirin.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Merviel
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Tenon, 4 rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France.
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Lee LC, Sheu BC, Shau WY, Liu DM, Lai TJ, Lee YH, Huang SC. Mid-trimester beta-hCG levels incorporated in a multifactorial model for the prediction of severe pre-eclampsia. Prenat Diagn 2000; 20:738-43. [PMID: 11015703 DOI: 10.1002/1097-0223(200009)20:9<738::aid-pd917>3.0.co;2-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia remains a major cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Proposed predicting tests for early detection of pregnant women destined to develop pre-eclampsia remain unsatisfactory. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical utility of combining mid-trimester maternal serum beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin (MShCG) levels with selected clinical determining factors as a multifactorial predictive test for pre-eclampsia. Thirty-nine cases with mild pre-eclampsia and 56 with severe pre-eclampsia were recruited as the study groups. Normotensive women (957) were enrolled as controls. Potential determining risk factors for severe pre-eclampsia were selected using a multiple logistic regression to build various combined prediction models. A receiver-operator characteristic curve was employed to assess the performance of each prediction test for pre-eclampsia. The prediction efficacy of each test was examined by the area under the curve (AUC). Our data show that mid-trimester MShCG levels significantly correlated with severity of pre-eclampsia (Spearman rank correlation coefficient=0.195, p<0.001). Women with mild pre-eclampsia had a 2.61-times greater chance, while women with severe pre-eclampsia had a 6.13-times greater chance of having MShCG exceeding 2.0 multiples of the median than did women with a normal pregnancy. A combined prediction model composed of MShCG levels, body mass index (BMI), parity, and age as a predictive test for severe pre-eclampsia was superior to MShCG levels alone (AUC 0.765 versus 0.648). The integrated multifactorial model could identify women at risk early on for developing severe pre-eclampsia, with a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 71%. Thus, we demonstrate a potentially effective and convenient method by which women at risk for developing severe pre-eclampsia can be identified early, based on a multifactorial predictive model composed of midtrimester MShCG levels, BMI, parity, and age.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Taipei Municipal Women and Children's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Maternal Urine β-core hCG Fragment Level and Small for Gestational Age Neonates. Obstet Gynecol 2000. [DOI: 10.1097/00006250-200005000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Ogle R, Jauniaux E, Pahal GS, Dell E, Sheldrake A, Rodeck C. Serum screening for Down syndrome and adverse pregnancy outcomes: a case‐controlled study. Prenat Diagn 2000. [DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0223(200002)20:2<96::aid-pd766>3.0.co;2-#] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Ogle
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Eric Jauniaux
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Gurmit S. Pahal
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Elissa Dell
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Royal Free and University College London, UK
| | - Ann Sheldrake
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Royal Free and University College London, UK
| | - Charles Rodeck
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
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Ezimokhai M, Mensah-Brown EP, Agarwal M, Rizk DE, Thomas L. Renal handling of endogenous human chorionic gonadotrophin in preeclampsia. Hypertens Pregnancy 1999; 18:129-37. [PMID: 10476614 DOI: 10.3109/10641959909023072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that the elevated maternal serum concentration of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in preeclampsia is due to altered renal handling of the hormone. SETTING Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Al Ain Hospital, United Arab Emirates, a tertiary center affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University. METHODS The renal clearances and handling of endogenous creatinine and human chorionic gonadotrophin were compared in 14 normotensive volunteer and 14 preeclamptic mothers who received oral hydration at 34-37 weeks' gestation. The hCG content in the placentas was estimated immunohistochemically after delivery. RESULTS Maternal serum concentration of hCG (p = 0.0057), the placental hCG immunopositive cell (p < 0.0001), and syncytial knot counts (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in preeclamptic mothers. The renal clearances of endogenous creatinine and hCG and fractional hCG clearance were not significantly different in both groups. Significantly increased amounts of hCG were filtered (p = 0.007) and excreted (p = 0.007) by preeclamptic mothers. Only a small but fixed proportion of the filtered load of hCG is excreted in both groups and there was a positive correlation (r = 0.5, p = 0.005) between filtered and excreted loads of hCG. CONCLUSION The results indicate increased placental content of hCG in preeclampsia. The resultant increased maternal serum concentration is probably sustained by the mechanism of renal handling of the hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ezimokhai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abstract
The onset of preeclampsia at or near to term is associated with low maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. In contrast, those patients (1%) who suffer early onset preeclampsia engender significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Therefore, because of the lack of proven prophylaxis for preeclampsia, prediction of risk or identification of subclinical disease is desirable to identify patients for more intensive observation. There are certain at-risk groups of patients such as those with chronic hypertension, pregestational diabetes, multifetal gestation, and previous preeclampsia. These patients account for the majority of cases of preeclampsia in multiparas, yet only account for 14% of preeclampsia in nulliparous women. Thus, the majority of cases of preeclampsia arises from nulliparous women without medical complications at low risk. Differences in the time of onset, severity, and organ system involvement suggest there may be different underlying etiologies that ultimately lead to preeclampsia manifested as the triad of maternal hypertension, proteinuria, and edema. Distinct markers therefore may identify subgroups of at-risk patients with separate underlying causes. These markers ultimately could be used for diagnosis of disease before the clinical appearance of maternal disease (hypertension, proteinuria, and edema). Based on data from patients with established disease, with the involvement of various organ systems, potential candidate markers would include renal function (kallikrein-creatinine); coagulation and fibrinolytic systems and platelet activation (platelet volume); markers of vascular function (fibronectin, prostacyclin, thromboxane) and oxidant stress (lipid peroxides, 8-isoprostane, antioxidants, anticardiolipin antibodies, hemoglobin, iron, transferrin, homocysteine, hypertriglyceridemia, albumin isoforms); placental peptide hormones (CRH, CRHbp, activin, inhibin, hCG); vascular resistance (uteroplacental flow velocity waveforms); genetic markers; insulin resistance; and glucose intolerance. Although cross-sectional studies have identified these potential markers, they need to be evaluated in prospective longitudinal studies with rigorous definition of outcome to determine if they are useful in predicting preeclampsia and whether they can identify different subgroups of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Myatt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, OH 45267, USA
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Räty R, Koskinen P, Alanen A, Irjala K, Matinlauri I, Ekblad U. Prediction of pre-eclampsia with maternal mid-trimester total renin, inhibin A, AFP and free beta-hCG levels. Prenat Diagn 1999; 19:122-7. [PMID: 10215068 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0223(199902)19:2<122::aid-pd491>3.0.co;2-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We wanted to study if maternal serum mid-trimester total renin, inhibin A, AFP or free beta-hCG levels predict the development of pre-eclampsia. Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorion gonadotrophin (beta-hCG) were evaluated in the screening programme for Down syndrome in 4356 patients prospectively. Data on pregnancy outcome were available in 1242 women. Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) developed in 69 women, 282 women with uneventful pregnancy outcome were selected for controls. Serum total renin and inhibin A levels were measured retrospectively in the trisomy screening samples of 69 and 30 patients who later developed PIH, and in 282 and 7 patients, respectively, who had an uneventful pregnancy outcome. No significant differences were found in the levels of maternal mid-trimester serum total renin, inhibin A or free beta-hCG levels between PIH and healthy women. The multiples of the median (MoM) of AFP values were significantly higher in the subgroup of patients who later developed severe pre-eclampsia than in patients with mild pre-eclampsia or gestational hypertension and healthy pregnant women. Maternal mid-trimester serum levels of total renin, inhibin A and free beta-hCG are not predictive for development of PIH. High mid-trimester serum AFP values may help in the prediction of severe pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Räty
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Turku University Central Hospital, Finland
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Bahado-Singh RO, Oz U, Isozaki T, Seli E, Kovanci E, Hsu CD, Cole L. Midtrimester urine human chorionic gonadotropin beta-subunit core fragment levels and the subsequent development of pre-eclampsia. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998; 179:738-41. [PMID: 9757981 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9378(98)70074-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to determine whether midtrimester maternal urine human chorionic gonadotropin beta-subunit core fragment predicts later pre-eclampsia. STUDY DESIGN Urine beta-core fragment levels standardized to spot creatinine concentration and expressed as multiples of the median were prospectively determined in 347 midtrimester singleton pregnancies undergoing genetic amniocentesis. All women considered in the analysis were white and nonsmokers. Obstetric chart review was undertaken after delivery to identify cases in which pre-eclampsia developed. The risk of pre-eclampsia at different threshold levels of beta-core fragment of human chorionic gonadotropin was determined. RESULTS The median maternal age was 36.0 years, with a median gestational age at urine collection of 16.0 weeks. The median level of the beta-core fragment of human chorionic gonadotropin was 1385.5 ng/mg of creatinine in those with pre-eclampsia, whereas that in those without pre-eclampsia was 1061.2 ng/mg. The difference was significant (Mann-Whitney U test, P = .03). A significant linear association was found between the beta-core fragment concentration and the risk of pre-eclampsia (Mantel-Haenszel test of linear association, P = .03). The relative risk and 95% confidence interval of subsequent pre-eclampsia increased from 2.07 (1.06 to 4.05) at beta-core fragment levels of human chorionic gonadotropin > or = 2.0 multiples of the median to 5.17 (1.95 to 13.7) at > or = 4.0 multiples of the median. CONCLUSION Clinically normal patients with elevated midtrimester levels of urine beta-core fragment of human chorionic gonadotropin are at increased risk for the subsequent development of pre-eclampsia. The clinical value of this urine analyte as a marker for pre-eclampsia needs to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- R O Bahado-Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA
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Fraser RF, McAsey ME, Coney P. Inhibin-A and pro-alpha C are elevated in preeclamptic pregnancy and correlate with human chorionic gonadotropin. Am J Reprod Immunol 1998; 40:37-42. [PMID: 9689359 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.1998.tb00386.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Serum concentrations of the heterodimeric glycoprotein inhibin-A (alpha-beta A) and its alpha-subunit increase during pregnancy. The placenta is the predominant source of inhibin during pregnancy, and a paracrine role in the trophoblast has been suggested. Elevated serum concentrations of inhibin alpha-subunit as well as the glycoprotein human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) have been described in preeclamptic pregnancy. The objectives of this investigation were to compare serum concentrations of inhibin-A and inhibin pro-alpha C in preeclamptic and normotensive pregnancy, and to examine the relationship of hCG and inhibin-A in those pregnancies. METHOD OF STUDY A case-control design using 32 patients with preeclampsia with a single fetus at 32-40 weeks of gestation and 34 gestation age-matched normotensive control subjects was used for this investigation. Solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to measure inhibin-A and inhibin pro-alpha C in sera. An immunoradiometric assay was used to measure intact hCG. RESULTS Inhibin-A and inhibin pro-alpha C concentrations were significantly elevated in the sera of women with preeclampsia compared with those concentrations in normotensive control subjects (P < 0.05). A relationship of inhibin-A or pro-alpha C with severity of preeclampsia was not observed. There was a significant positive correlation of serum hCG with both inhibin-A and pro-alpha C (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Levels of inhibin-A and the subunit pro-alpha C are increased in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia. These findings are potentially the effect of a paracrine role of inhibin-A in the development and proliferation of the trophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F Fraser
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, USA
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Strohmer H, Kiss H, Mösl B, Egarter C, Husslein P, Knöfler M. Hypoxia downregulates continuous and interleukin-1-induced expression of human chorionic gonadotropin in choriocarcinoma cells. Placenta 1997; 18:597-604. [PMID: 9290157 DOI: 10.1016/0143-4004(77)90016-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The effects of hypoxia on JEG-3, BeWo, and JAr cells were investigated and it was demonstrated that choriocarcinoma cells can be used as a model to study the molecular mechanism of hypoxia-mediated repression of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Cells were maintained under hypoxia (3.5 per cent O2) for 72 h without loss of variability, as demonstrated by the fact that 93-98 per cent of the cells excluded trypan blue. Up to 48 h, cell growth was not significantly influenced by hypoxia, and analysis by flow cytometry did not reveal major changes in cell cycle distribution. JEG-3, BeWo, and JAr cells which were grown for 48 h under hypoxia secreted 81, 67, and 71 per cent less hCG than cells cultivated under normoxic conditions. The extent of hCG reduction was dependent on the oxygen concentration. Moreover, release of the hormone from hypoxic JAr cells was not stimulated upon addition of interleukin-1 (IL-1). Treatment of JEG-3 cells with methotrexate (MTX) led to a 4.3-fold augmentation in hCG secretion and to an increase in the amount of G0/G1 cells. However, when cells were cultured in the presence of MTX and hypoxia, hCG secretion decreased 10-fold and beta hCG mRNA declined to almost undetectable levels suggesting that downregulation of beta hCG mRNA is the major cause of diminished hCG release under hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Strohmer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Vienna, Austria
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Murai JT, Muzykanskiy E, Taylor RN. Maternal and fetal modulators of lipid metabolism correlate with the development of preeclampsia. Metabolism 1997; 46:963-7. [PMID: 9258283 DOI: 10.1016/s0026-0495(97)90088-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The pregnancy syndrome preeclampsia is associated with placental dysfunction, dyslipidemia, and endothelial cell activation, and is a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. In this report, a nested case-control study of matched preeclamptic and normal pregnant women was used to investigate the association of maternal and fetal modulators of lipid metabolism with pregnancy outcome. Maternal body mass index (BMI), triglyceride levels, and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations were all significantly increased in women who developed preeclampsia (P < .01). Human placental lactogen (hPL), which is secreted by the syncytiotrophoblast layer of the fetal placenta and reportedly has lipolytic activity, also was found to be elevated in women with preeclampsia (P < .01). By contrast, hemoglobin levels were not found to be statistically different between the two groups of women, indicating that the increased plasma lipids and hPL were not a result of hemoconcentration in preeclamptic patients. The results suggest a multihit hypothesis for the pathophysiology of preeclampsia in which maternal obesity and a placental lipolytic hormone (hPL) converge to adversely affect free fatty acid concentrations in the maternal circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Murai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0132, USA
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