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The Role of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Preeclampsia: Causative Factor or Collateral Damage?
Alex N Smith1, Xi Wang1, Daniel G Thomas1
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.
American Journal of Hypertension
|January 8, 2021
Summary
Mitochondrial dysfunction is strongly linked to preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition. Therapies targeting this dysfunction may offer new treatment avenues for preeclampsia.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Mitochondrial Biology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Preeclampsia affects 5-10% of pregnancies globally, posing significant maternal and fetal risks.
- Currently, delivery is the only cure, and the disease's exact causes remain unknown.
- Emerging evidence highlights a strong association between mitochondrial dysfunction and preeclampsia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature supporting the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in preeclampsia.
- To explore if mitochondrial dysfunction precedes preeclampsia onset.
- To discuss potential therapies for mitochondrial dysfunction in preeclampsia.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental and clinical studies.
- Analysis of factors contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction in preeclampsia.
- Examination of therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Preeclampsia involves mitochondrial dysfunction, evidenced by elevated circulating mitochondrial DNA and reactive oxygen species.
- Angiotensin II type 1 receptor agonistic autoantibodies (AT1-AA), activated natural killer cells, and inflammation exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction.
- These factors collectively contribute to the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key contributor to preeclampsia.
- It may serve as a precursor to the disease.
- Therapeutic interventions aimed at improving mitochondrial function show promise for preeclampsia treatment.
Keywords:
blood pressureendothelial dysfunctionhypertensioninflammationinnate immunitymitochondrial dysfunctionnatural killer cellsoxidative stresspreeclampsiaMore Related Videos
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