Androgens in maternal vascular and placental function: implications for preeclampsia pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Maternal-fetal medicine
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Maternal vascular adaptations are critical for fetal development and a healthy pregnancy.
• Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, is linked to impaired placental vascularization and function.
• Emerging evidence suggests a role for androgens in preeclampsia pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the hypothesis that androgen action, specifically via the androgen receptor (AR), contributes to preeclampsia.
• To examine clinical and preclinical data supporting the link between testosterone and preeclampsia.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical data on testosterone levels and AR gene expression in preeclamptic women.
• Analysis of preclinical animal models mimicking elevated testosterone levels during pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Preeclamptic women exhibit elevated circulating testosterone and placental AR gene expression.
• Animal models with increased testosterone replicate preeclampsia features like hypertension and impaired placental development.
• Testosterone's effects appear mediated through the androgen receptor (AR).

Conclusions:

• Androgen receptor-mediated testosterone action is strongly implicated as a significant pathway in preeclampsia development.
• Further research into this pathway could reveal novel therapeutic targets for preeclampsia.