Role of fetal DNA in preeclampsia (Review)

BARBORA KONEČNÁ, BARBORA VLKOVÁ, PETER CELEC
2014 International Journal of Molecular Medicine  
Preeclampsia is an autoimmune disorder characterized by hypertension. It begins with abnormal cytotrophoblast apoptosis, which leads to inflammation and an increase in the levels of anti-angiogenic factors followed by the disruption of the angiogenic status. Increased levels of fetal DNA and RNA coming from the placenta, one of the most commonly affected organs in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, have been found in pregnant women with the condition. However, it remains unknown as to
more » ... her this is a cause or a consequence of preeclampsia. Few studies have been carried out on preeclampsia in which an animal model of preeclampsia was induced by an injection of different types of DNA that are mimic fetal DNA and provoke inflammation through Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) or cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP). The specific mechanisms involved in the development of preeclampsia are not yet fully understood. It is hypothesized that the presence of different fragments of fetal DNA in maternal plasma may cause for the development of preeclampsia. The function of DNase during preeclampsia also remains unresolved. Studies have suggested that its activity is decreased or the DNA is protected against its effects. Further research is required to uncover the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and focus more on the condition of patients with the condition. Contents 1. Preeclampsia as a series of disorders 2. Inflammation in preeclampsia 3. Role of fetal DNA in preeclampsia 4. Biology of fetal DNA 5. Causes and prevention of preeclampsia 6. Conclusions
doi:10.3892/ijmm.2014.2039 pmid:25515918 fatcat:dd7dknw37zaynca6g5iga66b4i