[Action of complement in normal pregnancy and gestosis]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Obstetrics
• Biochemistry

Context:

• The complement system plays a crucial role in immune responses.
• Pregnancy involves significant physiological adaptations, including immune system modulation.
• Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication with potential immune system involvement.

Purpose:

• To investigate the behavior of the complement system during normal pregnancy, puerperium, and pre-eclampsia.
• To identify specific complement component alterations and their potential implications.

Summary:

• Complement component 50 (CH50) remained stable in normal pregnancy but increased postpartum. Complement factor H (CVFAH50) steadily rose throughout pregnancy.
• Early classical pathway components (C1q, C1s, C1-INH) decreased, while later components (C3, C5, C9, C3PA) increased during pregnancy, with all levels elevated postpartum.
• Pre-eclampsia showed no significant complement variations compared to normal pregnancy, except for a reduction in CVFAH50. Decreased early components may be due to blocking factors, while increased later components suggest hormonal influence and high turnover.

Impact:

• Findings suggest that complement system changes during pregnancy are complex and influenced by hormonal and immune factors.
• The study highlights potential immune dysregulation in pre-eclampsia, even if overt complement activation is not detected in circulation.
• Understanding complement system behavior is vital for managing pregnancy complications and immune-related disorders.