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Published on: March 13, 2014
Longitudinal changes in serum paraoxonase-1 activity throughout normal pregnancy
Natàlia Ferré1, Jordi Camps, Joan Fernández-Ballart
1Centre de Recerca Biomèdica, Hospital Universitari de Sant Joan, Institut de Recerca en Ciències de la Salut, Reus, Spain.
Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
|June 17, 2006
Summary
Serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity declines during pregnancy. Adequate vitamin C intake is associated with higher PON1 levels, suggesting potential benefits for pregnant women.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is an enzyme with antioxidant properties.
- PON1 activity may be influenced by physiological changes during pregnancy.
- Dietary antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, are crucial for maternal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine longitudinal changes in serum PON1 activity throughout pregnancy.
- To investigate the relationship between maternal dietary intake of vitamins C and E and PON1 activity.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study involving 35 women.
- PON1 activity measured at preconception, 8, 20, 32 weeks of gestation, and at labor.
- Maternal dietary intake of vitamins C and E assessed.
Main Results:
- Significant decrease in PON1 activity from preconception to 32 weeks of pregnancy and labor.
- A direct association was observed between vitamin C intake and PON1 activity at 32 weeks.
- No significant association was found for vitamin E intake.
Conclusions:
- Serum PON1 activity naturally declines during normal pregnancy.
- Adequate maternal vitamin C intake may help maintain PON1 activity.
- Vitamin C supplementation could be considered for pregnant women, particularly those at risk for preeclampsia.
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