Antioxidant activity and lipid peroxidation in preeclampsia

Epidemiologic studies demonstrate a relation between preeclampsia and an increased risk of future maternal coronary heart disease. The pathophysiology of the underlying mechanism is unknown. Disorders of lipoprotein metabolism may contribute to endothelial dysfunction. Oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant defense enhances free radical-mediated membrane lipid peroxidation and possibly vascular endothelial damage. The aim of this study was to elucidate the possible relation between lipidemic status, lipid peroxidation and albumin with total antioxidant activity (AOA) that may contribute to atherogenicity in preeclamptic women.

Twenty-five women with preeclampsia and 25 normal pregnant women who were matched for maternal and gestational age were selected for the study. Total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), atherogenic index (AI), malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation, AOA and albumin levels were measured.

MDA, TC and AI were significantly elevated (p < 0.001), and HDL-C, AOA and albumin levels were significantly decreased (p < 0.001) in preeclamptic patients compared to the control group.

We conclude that hypercholesterolemia leads to excessive lipid peroxidation. Coexistent diminution in antioxidant activity leads to an imbalance between prooxidants and antioxidants, resulting in oxidative stress. Oxidative stress and elevated AI may contribute to atherogenicity in preeclampsia.