Oxidant and antioxidant imbalance as root cause in preeclampsia

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia is a human pregnancy-specific disorder that adversely affects the mother by vascular dysfunction and the fetus by intrauterine growth restriction. The mechanisms involved in induction of endothelial cell dysfunction are poorly understood. One hypothesis receiving increased attention is placental and maternal free radical reactions promoting a cycle of events that compromise the defensive functioning of the vascular endothelium in preeclampsia. Aim: To measure serum nitric oxide, MDA and uric acid levels to find the balance of oxidant and antioxidant status, plausible markers of endothelial dysfunction in pre-eclamptic women. Material and Method: Thirty pre-eclamptic women and thirty gestational age matched normal pregnant women were included in the study. The cases of mild and severe preeclampsia were evaluated for serum MDA, NO and uric acid levels. Results: Serum MDA and uric acid levels were significantly raised in preeclampsia when compared to normal pregnancy. The stage wise rise of serum MDA from mild to severe preeclampsia was found to be statistically significant. Mean NO levels were significantly lowered in mild as well as severe preeclampsia as compared to normal pregnant women. Significant positive correlation between MDA and uric acid levels among preeclamptic women was observed. Values of MDA and NO give negative correlation among preeclamptic pregnant women. Conclusion: Elevated MDA and uric acid shows oxidative stress in preeclampsia and decreased concentration of nitric oxide supports the hypothesis of imbalance in oxidant-antioxidant induced endothelial dysfunction.