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Differential Regulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Term and Preterm Preeclampsia

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Abstract

Our earlier studies in preeclampsia (PE) suggest a causal relationship between altered angiogenic factors and birth outcomes. Recent studies suggest that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can stimulate angiogenesis. The present study examines the levels of maternal and cord BDNF in women with PE (n = 106; full term [n = 60] and preterm [n = 46]) and normotensive women (n = 95; control) delivering at term. Maternal BDNF levels were lower (P < .05) in women with PE when compared to normotensive women. Cord BDNF levels were higher (P < .01) in women with PE delivering at term, while it was lower (P < .01) in women delivering preterm. Maternal BDNF levels were negatively associated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P < .01 for both). Our data for the first time suggest a possible role for BDNF in the pathophysiology of PE. Differential regulation of cord BDNF levels in preterm PE suggests a need to follow-up children to assess the neurodevelopmental effects in later life.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, 411043, Maharashtra, India

    Vandita A. D’Souza MSc, Anitha S. Kilari BAMS, Asmita A. Joshi PhD, Hemlata M. Pisal BSc & Sadhana R. Joshi PhD

  2. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bharati Medical College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, Maharashtra, India

    Savita S. Mehendale MD

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  1. Vandita A. D’Souza MSc
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  2. Anitha S. Kilari BAMS
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  3. Asmita A. Joshi PhD
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  5. Hemlata M. Pisal BSc
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  6. Sadhana R. Joshi PhD
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Correspondence to Sadhana R. Joshi PhD.

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D’Souza, V.A., Kilari, A.S., Joshi, A.A. et al. Differential Regulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Term and Preterm Preeclampsia. Reprod. Sci. 21, 230–235 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719113493512

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