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Changes in number and biological function of endothelial progenitor cells in hypertension disorder complicating

Yan Zhou1, Jianwen Zhu, Li Zou

  • 1Department of Obstetrics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China. zhouyan030118@126.com

Journal of Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Medical Sciences = Hua Zhong Ke Ji Da Xue Xue Bao. Yi Xue Ying De Wen Ban = Huazhong Keji Daxue Xuebao. Yixue Yingdewen Ban
|December 25, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Hypertension disorder complicating pregnancy (HDCP) significantly reduces the number and impairs the function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in peripheral blood. These findings suggest a potential role for EPC dysfunction in the pathophysiology of HDCP.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Hypertension disorder complicating pregnancy (HDCP) is a serious condition affecting pregnant women.
  • Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a crucial role in vascular repair and endothelial function.
  • Changes in EPCs may contribute to the development of pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the quantitative and functional changes of EPCs in the peripheral blood of women with HDCP.
  • To compare EPC characteristics between women with HDCP and normal pregnant women.

Main Methods:

  • Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNCs) were isolated from 20 women with HDCP and 20 normal pregnant women.
  • EPCs were identified using CD34, CD133, and factor VIII markers.
  • EPC number, proliferation, migration, and adhesion were assessed using flow cytometry, MTT assay, and modified Boyden chamber assay.

Main Results:

  • The number of EPCs was significantly lower in women with HDCP compared to normal pregnant women (4.29% vs 15.32%, P<0.01).
  • EPC proliferation, migration, and adhesion activities were significantly impaired in women with HDCP (P<0.01).

Conclusions:

  • HDCP is associated with a significant reduction in both the number and functional capacity of EPCs.
  • Impaired EPCs may contribute to the vascular complications observed in HDCP.

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