Expression of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in human trophoblasts of normal and preeclamptic placentas: preliminary findings.
OBJECTIVE
Here we test the hypothesis that "the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 proteins is altered in preeclamptic placentas compared to placentas of normal pregnancy."


METHODS
This case-control study includes preeclamptic placentas (40 women with preeclampsia) from a singleton pregnancy and placentas of normal pregnancies (control group, 40 women with uncomplicated pregnancy). The expression patterns of metalloproteinases 2 and 9 were examined using immunohistochemical staining methods.


RESULTS
Compared to uncomplicated pregnancy, the incidence of intrauterine growth restriction was high and the mean birth weight was markedly low in patients with preeclampsia. Both metalloproteinase 2 and 9 proteins were frequently and strongly expressed in the majority of placentas of uncomplicated pregnancies (control group). Metalloproteinase 9 expression was absent in the majority of the preeclamptic placentas. In the remaining cases of preeclamptic placentas, the expression of metalloproteinase 9 was weak. In contrast, a strong metalloproteinase 2 protein expression was seen in the majority of the preeclamptic placentas.


CONCLUSIONS
These preliminary data demonstrate the expression of metalloproteinase 2 and 9 proteins in the placentas of uncomplicated pregnancies. The absence/reduced expression of metalloproteinase 9 in the preeclamptic placentas may be related to insufficient invasion of trophoblast, leading to superficial and unsuccessful placentation.
Shokry
Mahmoud
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut, Egypt. mshromih@yahoo.com
Omran
Ola M
OM
Hassan
Howyda Ismail
HI
Elsedfy
Ghada O
GO
Hussein
Mahmoud Rezk A
MR
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020778:Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D010920:Placenta / Q000201:enzymology / Q000473:pathology; D011225:Pre-Eclampsia / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000473:pathology; D011247:Pregnancy; D014327:Trophoblasts / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000473:pathology; D055815:Young Adult
D020778:Matrix Metalloproteinase 2; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9