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Multiplexed Fluorescent Immunohistochemical Staining of Four Endometrial Immune Cell Types in Recurrent Miscarriage
Published on: August 4, 2021
Role of microparticles in recurrent miscarriages and other adverse pregnancies: a review
Shrimati Shetty1, Rucha Patil, Kanjaksha Ghosh
1National Institute of Immunohaematology (ICMR), 13th Floor, KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India. shrimatishetty@gmail.com
Abstract:
The multiple functions attributed to microparticles (MPs) include blood coagulation, inflammation, tumorigenesis, angiogenesis, immunomodulatory functions and intercellular cross talk. These have drawn considerable interest during the last few years. The prothrombotic nature of MPs has linked them with almost all groups of thrombotic disorders including recurrent miscarriage (RM) and other abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Two authors (SS and RP) conducted a search independently on the computerized databases MEDLINE and EMBASE using relevant key words. Contradictory reports were observed on the association of MPs with RM. While most of the reports showed increased prevalence of MPs, both platelet and endothelial cell derived, in RM, some did not show any association. Almost all the reports showed a strong association of MPs with preeclampsia (PE), while the association with other adverse pregnancy conditions was not very conclusive. It may be concluded that MPs by themselves may result in adverse conditions or that they may be additive factors to an already existing prothrombotic state due to acquired or genetic thrombophilia or some unknown thrombophilic condition, besides the pre-existing hypercoagulable status of pregnancy.
Insights
Microparticles (MPs) are linked to pregnancy complications like recurrent miscarriage and preeclampsia. While some studies show increased MPs in recurrent miscarriage, others find no association, unlike the consistent link with preeclampsia.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microparticles (MPs) are cell-derived vesicles with diverse biological functions, including roles in coagulation, inflammation, and intercellular communication.
- Their prothrombotic nature has implicated them in various thrombotic disorders.
- MPs have garnered significant research interest due to their multifaceted roles.
Observation:
- A systematic review of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases explored the association between MPs and recurrent miscarriage (RM).
- Contradictory findings were noted regarding MPs in RM, with most studies reporting increased prevalence (platelet and endothelial cell-derived MPs), but some showing no significant association.
- A consistent and strong association was observed between MPs and preeclampsia (PE), while links to other adverse pregnancy conditions were less conclusive.
Findings:
- The prevalence of microparticles (MPs), particularly those derived from platelets and endothelial cells, shows a complex and sometimes contradictory association with recurrent miscarriage (RM).
- A robust correlation exists between elevated levels of MPs and preeclampsia (PE).
- The role of MPs in other adverse pregnancy outcomes requires further investigation.
Implications:
- Microparticles may contribute to adverse pregnancy conditions independently or act as additive factors in women with pre-existing thrombophilia.
- Understanding the role of MPs in pregnancy complications like RM and PE could lead to improved diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which MPs influence pregnancy outcomes and to clarify their association with RM.
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