A study of oxidative stress and altered endothelial cell functionin preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a complex multisystem disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. It is one of the most common and potentially fatal complications of pregnancy. A case control study was carried out to assess the levels of homocysteine, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in patients with preeclampsia. Fasting venous samples were collected during antepartum period and serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy), malondialdehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and uric acid were measured. In the preeclamptic group, Hcy and MDA levels were significantly raised while antioxidant ascorbic acid level was significantly reduced (p < 0.01) and uric acid concentration was increased significantly (p <0.01). These findings suggest that Hcy and lipid peroxidation are associated with preeclampsia. In preeclampsia, antioxidants are extensively utilized to counter act the cellular changes and endothelial dysfunction mediated by oxidative stress. Placental oxidative stress which results from the ischemic reperfusion injury is reported to be involved in the etiopathogenesis of preeclampsia.