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Barr LC, Liblik K, Johri AM, Smith GN. Maternal Cardiovascular Function Following a Pregnancy Complicated by Preeclampsia. Am J Perinatol 2022; 39:1055-1064. [PMID: 33321533 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1721694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a hypertensive pregnancy complication with an unknown etiology and high maternal burden worldwide. Burgeoning research has linked preeclampsia to adverse maternal health outcomes remote from pregnancy; however, the intermediary mechanisms responsible for this association have not been sufficiently established. In the present narrative review, we summarize leading evidence of structural and functional cardiovascular changes associated with prior preeclampsia, and how these changes may be linked to future maternal disease. KEY POINTS: · Prior preeclampsia is associated with subclinical structural and functional vascular changes remote from pregnancy.. · Maternal cardiac adaptations to preeclampsia may have long-term implications on cardiovascular health.. · Clinicians have an opportunity to minimize maternal disease risk following preeclampsia..
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan C Barr
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kiera Liblik
- Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amer M Johri
- Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Graeme N Smith
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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2
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Hanssen H, Streese L, Vilser W. Retinal vessel diameters and function in cardiovascular risk and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101095. [PMID: 35760749 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the last two decades evidence has gradually accumulated suggesting that the eye may be a unique window for cardiovascular risk stratification based on the assessment of subclinical damage of retinal microvascular structure and function. This can be facilitated by non-invasive analysis of static retinal vessel diameters and dynamic recording of flicker light-induced and endothelial function-related dilation of both retinal arterioles and venules. Recent new findings have made retinal microvascular biomarkers strong candidates for clinical implementation as reliable risk predictors. Beyond a review of the current evidence and state of research, the article aims to discuss the methodological benefits and pitfalls and to identify research gaps and future directions. Above all, the potential use for screening and treatment monitoring of cardiovascular disease risk are highlighted. The article provides fundamental comprehension of retinal vessel imaging by explaining anatomical and physiological essentials of the retinal microcirculation leading to a detailed description of the methodological approach. This allows for better understanding of the underlying retinal microvascular pathology associated with the prevalence and development of cardiovascular disease. A body of new evidence is presented on the clinical validity and predictive value of retinal vessel diameters and function for incidence cardiovascular disease and outcome. Findings in children indicate the potential for utility in childhood cardiovascular disease prevention, and the efficacy of exercise interventions highlight the treatment sensitivity of retinal microvascular biomarkers. Finally, coming from the availability of normative data, solutions for diagnostic challenges are discussed and conceptual steps towards clinical implementation are put into perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henner Hanssen
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, Preventive Sports Medicine and Systems Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Lukas Streese
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, Preventive Sports Medicine and Systems Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Walthard Vilser
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Ilmenau University of Technology, Ilmenau, Germany; Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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Barr LC, Herr JE, Hétu MF, Smith GN, Johri AM. Increased carotid artery stiffness after preeclampsia in a cross-sectional study of postpartum women. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15276. [PMID: 35439370 PMCID: PMC9017974 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive obstetrical complication associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. Carotid artery functional assessments allow for identification of subclinical vascular dysfunction. This cross‐sectional study measured carotid artery functional indices in healthy women with a recent pregnancy complicated by PE, versus women with a prior uncomplicated pregnancy. Women with a history of PE (N = 30) or an uncomplicated pregnancy (N = 30), were recruited between 6 months and 5 years postpartum. Left and right carotid artery ultrasound measured carotid intima media thickness, plaque burden, peak systolic velocity, end diastolic flow velocity and carotid far‐wall circumferential strain (FWCS). Carotid FWCS is inversely related to vessel stiffness, where a decrease in FWCS indicates increased vessel stiffness. Right‐side FWCS did not differ between women with a history of PE versus normotensive pregnancy. Left carotid artery FWCS was lower in formerly preeclamptic women after adjustment for diameter, pulse pressure, and heart rate compared to women following an uncomplicated pregnancy (3.35 ± 1.08 × 10−3 vs. 4.46 ± 1.40 × 10−3; p = 0.003). Those with prior severe PE had the greatest decrease in FWCS adjusted to diameter, pulse pressure, and heart rate compared to healthy controls (p = 0.02). Adjusted FWCS and total serum cholesterol were independent indicators of PE history when present in a logistic regression model with confounding variables including age, body mass index, and resting blood pressure. Further investigation is needed to elucidate if FWCS can be used as a risk stratification tool for future cardiovascular disease following a pregnancy complicated by PE. A history of PE is associated with decreased left FWCS (increased left carotid artery stiffness).
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan C Barr
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia E Herr
- Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marie-France Hétu
- Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Graeme N Smith
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amer M Johri
- Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Sharifizad M, Schmidl D, Werkmeister RM, Zeisler H, Told R, Binder J, Küssel L, Garhöfer G, Schmetterer L. Retinal vessel diameters, flicker-induced retinal vasodilation and retinal oxygen saturation in high- and low-risk pregnancy. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:628-636. [PMID: 33326186 PMCID: PMC8519143 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To compare retinal vascular parameters between high‐risk and low‐risk pregnant women over time during pregnancy. Methods In a longitudinal study, we included pregnant women with normal blood pressure and normal body mass index (BMI, group 1), pregnant women with systemic hypertension and/or overweight (group 2) and age‐matched nonpregnant healthy women (group 3). Using the dynamic vessel analyser (DVA) we investigated flicker‐induced vasodilation in retinal arteries (FLA) and veins (FLV), central retinal arterial and vein equivalent (CRAE, CRVE), arterio‐venous ratio (AVR) and retinal arterial and venous oxygen saturation (SartO2, SveinO2). Study visits were scheduled 2nd trimester (TP 2), 3rd trimester (TP 3) and postpartum (PP). Results Data from 29 women in group 1, 25 women in group 2 and 33 women in group 3 were included for analysis. FLA, FLV, CRAE, CRVE, AVR and SveinO2 were altered in group 2 (p‐values between < 0.001 and 0.009). At TP 3 the differences between groups were most pronounced. In contrast, there were only minor differences between group 1 and 3. Changes in retinal parameters were independently associated with systemic blood pressure and BMI. Conclusions The present analysis indicates that flicker‐induced retinal vasodilation, retinal vessel diameters and retinal oxygen saturation are altered in high‐risk pregnant women. Hence, these parameters are candidate biomarkers for pregnancy complications, a hypothesis that deserves further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mozhgan Sharifizad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Doreen Schmidl
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - René M. Werkmeister
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Harald Zeisler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Reinhard Told
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- Department of Ophthalmology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Julia Binder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Lorenz Küssel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Gerhard Garhöfer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Leopold Schmetterer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- Singapore Eye Research Institute Singapore Singapore
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore
- SERI‐NTU Advanced Ocular Engineering (STANCE) Singapore Singapore
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Farrah TE, Dhillon B, Keane PA, Webb DJ, Dhaun N. The eye, the kidney, and cardiovascular disease: old concepts, better tools, and new horizons. Kidney Int 2020; 98:323-342. [PMID: 32471642 PMCID: PMC7397518 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2020.01.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, with hypertension and diabetes mellitus acting as major risk factors for its development. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide and the most frequent end point of CKD. There is an urgent need for more precise methods to identify patients at risk of CKD and cardiovascular disease. Alterations in microvascular structure and function contribute to the development of hypertension, diabetes, CKD, and their associated cardiovascular disease. Homology between the eye and the kidney suggests that noninvasive imaging of the retinal vessels can detect these microvascular alterations to improve targeting of at-risk patients. Retinal vessel-derived metrics predict incident hypertension, diabetes, CKD, and cardiovascular disease and add to the current renal and cardiovascular risk stratification tools. The advent of optical coherence tomography (OCT) has transformed retinal imaging by capturing the chorioretinal microcirculation and its dependent tissue with near-histological resolution. In hypertension, diabetes, and CKD, OCT has revealed vessel remodeling and chorioretinal thinning. Clinical and preclinical OCT has linked retinal microvascular pathology to circulating and histological markers of injury in the kidney. The advent of OCT angiography allows contrast-free visualization of intraretinal capillary networks to potentially detect early incipient microvascular disease. Combining OCT's deep imaging with the analytical power of deep learning represents the next frontier in defining what the eye can reveal about the kidney and broader cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq E Farrah
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Baljean Dhillon
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Pearse A Keane
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - David J Webb
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neeraj Dhaun
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Machalińska A, Kawa MP, Babiak K, Sobuś A, Grabowicz A, Lejkowska R, Kazimierczak A, Rynio P, Safranow K, Wilk G, Gutowski P, Machaliński B. Retinal vessel dynamic functionality in the eyes of asymptomatic patients with significant internal carotid artery stenosis. INT ANGIOL 2019; 38:230-238. [PMID: 31112024 DOI: 10.23736/s0392-9590.19.04112-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The goal of this study was to assess the retinal microvascular function in asymptomatic patients with hemodynamically significant internal carotid artery stenosis (ICAS) and to assess the potential efficacy of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for the improvement of vessel functionality. METHODS Retinal vessel caliber and reactions to flicker stimulation were assessed in both eyes of 65 asymptomatic patients with unilateral hemodynamically significant ICAS and 34 healthy subjects. Subsequently, the recruited ICAS patients were referred for standard unilateral CEA procedure. The full ophthalmologic examination of both eyes and vessel analysis were performed 1 day before and 3 months after CEA. RESULTS The venous responses to flicker stimulation were significantly lower in the EIS (eyes ipsilateral to stenosis) and ECS (eyes contralateral to stenosis) compared with those in the controls (P<0.0001 and P<0.0001, respectively). No changes were identified in retinal vascular flicker responses after CEA in both groups of eyes compared with the baseline values. We observed a decrease in CRVE (central retinal venular equivalent) after the CEA both in eyes ipsilateral (P=0.01) and contralateral (P=0.04) to CEA. Likewise, a decrease in CRAE (central retinal arteriolar equivalent) was identified in the eyes ipsilateral to CEA (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS This outcome strongly indicates that microvascular dysfunction is long-lasting despite the recovery of the flow in the carotid artery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Machalińska
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland -
| | - Miłosz P Kawa
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Babiak
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Sobuś
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Grabowicz
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Renata Lejkowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Kazimierczak
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Paweł Rynio
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Safranow
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Grażyna Wilk
- Department of General and Dental Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Piotr Gutowski
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Bogusław Machaliński
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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Curtin K, Theilen LH, Fraser A, Smith KR, Varner MW, Hageman GS. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy increase the risk of developing neovascular age-related macular degeneration in later life. Hypertens Pregnancy 2019; 38:141-148. [PMID: 30977693 DOI: 10.1080/10641955.2019.1597107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and short-term adverse outcomes have long been recognized; however, survivors remain at risk of long-term complications. We investigated whether HDP is associated with the development of choroidal neovascular age-related macular degeneration (CNV AMD). Methods: We identified 31,454 women who experienced HDP based on Utah birth certificates and 62,908 unexposed women matched 2:1 to the exposed. Risk of CNV AMD was estimated using Cox models. Findings: Women with HDP exhibited an 80% higher risk for early CNV AMD (age < 70 y; 95%CI 1.23-2.58). Conclusion: Our findings may have implications forearlier CNV AMD screening and detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Curtin
- a Department of Internal Medicine , University of Utah School of Medicine , Salt Lake City , USA.,b Pedigree and Population Resource, Huntsman Cancer Institute , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , USA.,c Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, John A. Moran Eye Center, Steele Center for Translational Medicine , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , USA
| | - Lauren H Theilen
- d Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology , University of Utah School of Medicine , Salt Lake City , USA
| | - Alison Fraser
- b Pedigree and Population Resource, Huntsman Cancer Institute , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , USA
| | - Ken R Smith
- b Pedigree and Population Resource, Huntsman Cancer Institute , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , USA.,e Family Studies & Population Sciences , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , USA
| | - Michael W Varner
- d Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology , University of Utah School of Medicine , Salt Lake City , USA
| | - Gregory S Hageman
- c Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, John A. Moran Eye Center, Steele Center for Translational Medicine , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , USA
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Evaluation of flicker induced hyperemia in the retina and optic nerve head measured by Laser Speckle Flowgraphy. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207525. [PMID: 30485331 PMCID: PMC6261588 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The coupling between neural activity and blood flow is a physiological key principle of ocular blood flow regulation. The current study was performed to investigate whether Laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG), a commercially available technique for measuring blood flow, is capable to assess flicker-induced haemodynamic changes in the retinal and optic nerve head (ONH) circulation. Methods Twenty healthy subjects were included in this cross sectional study. A commercial LSFG instrument was used to measure blood flow at the ONH as well as in retinal vessels before and during stimulation with flickering light. Mean blur rate (MBR), a measure of relative blood flow velocity, was obtained for the ONH and relative flow volume (RFV) a measure of relative blood flow of the respective retinal vessels. Results Stimulation with flicker light increased ONH MBR by +17.5%±6.6% (p<0.01). In retinal arteries, flicker stimulation led an increase of +23.8±10.0% (p<0.05) in total RFV. For retinal veins, an increase of +23.1%±11.0 (p<0.05) in total RFV was observed during stimulation. A higher response was observed in nasal RFV compared to temporal RFV in retinal arteries (nasal: +28.9%±20.0%; temporal: +20.4%±17.6%, p<0.05) and veins (nasal: +28.3%±19.6%; temporal +17.8%±18.9%, p<0.05). Conclusion As shown previously with other techniques, flicker stimulation leads to an increase in retinal and optic nerve head blood flow. Our results indicate that LSFG is an appropriate method for the quantification of retinal and ONH blood flow during visual stimulation and may be used as a non-invasive, easy to use tool to assess neuro-vascular coupling in humans.
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Machalińska A, Pius-Sadowska E, Babiak K, Sałacka A, Safranow K, Kawa MP, Machaliński B. Correlation between Flicker-Induced Retinal Vessel Vasodilatation and Plasma Biomarkers of Endothelial Dysfunction in Hypertensive Patients. Curr Eye Res 2017; 43:128-134. [PMID: 29135307 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2017.1358372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypertension (HT) strongly affects the vascular endothelium, resulting in chronic inflammatory disease. Dynamic vessel analysis (DVA) is a modern methodological approach to analyze vascular function in the retinal microcirculation. The aim of this study was to examine whether a defective retinal vessels response is associated with HT-induced endothelial dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retinal vessel reactions to flicker stimulation were examined by DVA in both eyes of 37 hypertensive and 41 healthy control subjects. Plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFɑ) were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Both arterial and vein responses to flicker stimulation were significantly decreased in patients with HT compared with the healthy controls (dilatation of the arteries was lower in the HT group by, on average, 1.31, p = 0.001 and dilatation of the veins was lower in the HT group by, on average, 1.32, p = 0.002) after independent adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and pressure values. In the hypertensive group, there was a negative correlation between the arterial response to flicker stimulation and the plasma CRP concentration (Spearman's Rank-order Coefficient (Rs) = -0.29, p = 0.07). Similarly, the plasma TNFα concentrations negatively correlated with the arterial response to flicker stimulation (Rs = -0.39, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that DVA directly reflects the actual metabolic status of the retinal endothelium. DVA might be used as an early noninvasive screening tool to detect vascular dysregulation and pan-endothelial dysfunction in patients with HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Machalińska
- a First Department of Ophthalmology , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Ewa Pius-Sadowska
- b Department of General Pathology , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Katarzyna Babiak
- b Department of General Pathology , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Anna Sałacka
- c Department of Family Medicine , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Krzysztof Safranow
- d Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Miłosz Piotr Kawa
- b Department of General Pathology , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Bogusław Machaliński
- b Department of General Pathology , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
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Benschop L, Schalekamp-Timmermans S, Roeters van Lennep JE, Jaddoe VWV, Wong TY, Cheung CY, Steegers EAP, Ikram MK. Gestational hypertensive disorders and retinal microvasculature: the Generation R Study. BMC Med 2017; 15:153. [PMID: 28803548 PMCID: PMC5554975 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-017-0917-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changes in the microvasculature associated with pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension have been proposed as a potential pathway in the development of cardiovascular disease. We examined whether gestational hypertensive disorders, such as pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension, are related to the maternal retinal microvasculature status after pregnancy. METHODS This study is part of an ongoing population-based prospective cohort study. During pregnancy and 6.2 years after the index pregnancy (90% range 5.7-7.4 years), we examined 3391 women with available information on pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension, and retinal vascular calibers. Retinal arteriolar and venular calibers were measured in the left eye from digitized retinal photographs. RESULTS Women with pre-eclampsia had smaller retinal arteriolar calibers 6 years after pregnancy than women with a normotensive pregnancy (adjusted difference: -0.40 standard deviation score [SDS]; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.62, -0.19). For women with previous gestational hypertension, similar trends were observed (-0.20 SDS; 95% CI: -0.34, -0.05). With respect to retinal venular calibers, we did not observe consistent trends for women with previous pre-eclampsia. However, in women with previous gestational hypertension, we observed larger venular calibers (0.22 SDS; 95% CI: 0.07-0.36) than in women with a previous normotensive pregnancy. The association of gestational hypertensive disorders with retinal vessel calibers was mediated through mean arterial pressure at the time of retinal imaging. CONCLUSIONS Compared to women with a previous normotensive pregnancy, women with pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension show an altered status of the microvasculature 6 years after the index pregnancy. This is reflected by smaller retinal arteriolar calibers and wider retinal venular calibers. These microvascular changes may possibly contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Benschop
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus Medical Center, Wytemaweg 80, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Sarah Schalekamp-Timmermans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus Medical Center, Wytemaweg 80, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Vincent W V Jaddoe
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tien Yin Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Carol Y Cheung
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus Medical Center, Wytemaweg 80, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Kamran Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Maier M, Brückmann A, Schleußner E, Schlembach D. Using critical flicker frequency in the evaluation of visual impairment in preeclamptic women. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2017; 211:188-193. [PMID: 28292692 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess critical flicker frequency (CFF) in normal uneventful pregnancy and preeclampsia. STUDY-DESIGN Case-control observational study at the University Hospital Jena and Outpatient Institute for Prenatal Diagnosis and Preventive Medicine. 25 non-pregnant women, 75 uncomplicated pregnant women in first, second and third trimester, and 15 women with overt preeclampsia. For comparison with preeclamptic patients we matched 15 normal pregnant women (mNP) for age, parity, body mass index, current smoking and family history of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We measured CFF using the portable HEPAtonorm Analyzer (nevoLAB GmbH, Germany). This device generates a flickering red light, starting with a frequency of 60Hz, giving the subjective an impression of a steady light. The participant signifies once the impression of a flickering light is recognized, and this CFF is recorded. Mean CFF and standard deviation is automatically calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 22 for Windows. Following assessment of normal distribution with Kolmogorov-Smirnow test, comparisons were made with univariate and multivariate ANOVA and with unpaired and paired t test for continuous data and with χ2 test for categorical data. RESULTS Critical flicker frequency in healthy pregnant women does not differ from nonpregnant women. No significant differences in CFF measurements exist in first, second, and third trimester. In preeclampsia, CFF is significantly decreased compared to normal pregnant women (PE 38.80±2.16 vs. mNP 46.23±3.37; p=0.000). This alteration persists even some weeks postpartum (PE 41.17±1.13 vs. mNP 46.45±3.44; p=0.003). CONCLUSION In preeclamptic women, CFF is decreased indicating an altered endothelial situation. The finding that CFF remains reduced postpartum may be explained by either the effect of preeclampsia on maternal endothelium causing longer lasting damage or indicate a preexisting endothelial disorder. Up to this point, precise responsible mechanisms for altered CFF in preeclampsia are currently unclear and further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Maier
- Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University, 07744 Jena, Germany
| | - Andreas Brückmann
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis and Preventive Medicine, GesaTal Medical Center, 99089 Erfurt, Germany
| | - Ekkehard Schleußner
- Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University, 07744 Jena, Germany
| | - Dietmar Schlembach
- Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University, 07744 Jena, Germany; Clinic of Obstetrics, Vivantes Hospital Berlin-Neukoelln, 12351 Berlin, Germany.
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Bonney EA, Howard A, Krebs K, Begin K, Veilleux K, Gokina NI. Impact of Immune Deficiency on Remodeling of Maternal Resistance Vasculature 4 Weeks Postpartum in Mice. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:514-525. [PMID: 27899739 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116678691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy manifests changes in the vascular and immune systems that persist postpartum (PP), have important implications for future pregnancies, and may modify responses to cardiovascular stress in late life. The association between immune and vascular function and the generation or progression of cardiovascular disease beg the question of whether altered immunity modifies pregnancy-induced changes in the vasculature. Our objective was to compare changes in the function and remodeling of systemic resistance vessels 4 weeks PP in normal C57BL/6 (B6), and immunodeficient mice recombinase 1-deficient/B6 ( Rag1-/-). Immune deficiency did not change the responsiveness to acetylcholine (ACh) and phenylephrine at baseline but decreased arterial distensibility and increased stiffness PP. Adoptive transfer of CD8 T cells into Rag1-/- mice decreased the response to ACh while increasing distensibility and wall thickness. When compared to PP Rag1-/-, vessels from PP CD4-deficient mice, which have B cells and CD8 T cells, but no CD4 cells, show increased distensibility and decreased responsiveness to ACh in a pattern similar to that seen in Rag1-/- given CD8 T cells prior to mating. These studies suggest a key role for T cell, particularly CD8 T cell, associated factors in the PP remodeling of maternal resistance vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bonney
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Ann Howard
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kendall Krebs
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kelly Begin
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kelsey Veilleux
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Natalia I Gokina
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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Abstract
The maternal immune system is complex and governed by multiple hormonal and metabolic factors, including those provided to the mother via the fetus. Understanding of the balance between maternal tolerance and protection of the fetus may require thinking from multiple theoretical approaches to the general problem of immune activation and tolerance. This article provides a brief review of the immune system, with aspects relevant to pregnancy. The references include reviews that expand on the elements discussed. The article also uses different models of immune system activation and tolerance to provide a theoretical understanding of the problem of maternal tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bonney
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Given Building Room C-246, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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Huckstep O, Lewandowski AJ, Leeson P. Invited Commentary: Hypertension During Pregnancy and Offspring Microvascular Structure-Insights From the Retinal Microcirculation. Am J Epidemiol 2016; 184:616-618. [PMID: 27744389 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kww060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human clinical studies as well as laboratory animal studies demonstrate that offspring of pregnancies affected by common complications, such as preeclampsia and preterm birth, display developmental phenotypes that relate distinctly to the pregnancy disorder. Several studies have now found microvascular differences in offspring of hypertensive pregnancies, and there is interest in whether these may underlie epidemiologic associations between gestational hypertension and a higher risk of hypertension and stroke in the offspring. The retinal circulation provides a unique window into microvascular structure, of likely relevance to both the cerebrovasculature and broader cardiovascular risk. Yesil et al. (Am J Epidemiol 2016;184(9):605-615) report in this issue of the Journal that maternal gestational blood pressure elevation is associated with reduced retinal vascular caliber in offspring at 6 years of age, providing a link between variation in pregnancy characteristics and childhood vascular development. Further work to understand the longitudinal association between pregnancy, emergence of microvascular changes, and cardiovascular risk may identify opportunities for future preventive interventions.
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Abstract
The maternal immune system is complex and governed by multiple hormonal and metabolic factors, including those provided to the mother via the fetus. Understanding of the balance between maternal tolerance and protection of the fetus may require thinking from multiple theoretical approaches to the general problem of immune activation and tolerance. This article provides a brief review of the immune system, with aspects relevant to pregnancy. The references include reviews that expand on the elements discussed. The article also uses different models of immune system activation and tolerance to provide a theoretical understanding of the problem of maternal tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bonney
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Given Building Room C-246, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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Neumann T, Baertschi M, Vilser W, Drinda S, Franz M, Brückmann A, Wolf G, Jung C. Retinal vessel regulation at high altitudes1. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2016; 63:281-92. [DOI: 10.3233/ch-162041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Neumann
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Baertschi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Switzerland
- Eyeness AG, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Marcus Franz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Gunter Wolf
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Jung
- University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology and Vascular Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
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