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Author Spotlight: Modeling an Aspect of Preeclampsia in Female Mice Using Hypoxic Human Placenta-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles
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Pregnancy-Related Extracellular Vesicles Revisited
Carmen Elena Condrat1,2, Valentin Nicolae Varlas3, Florentina Duică2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Polizu Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Eroii Sanitari Blvd., 050474 Bucharest, Romania.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|April 30, 2021
Summary
Quantifying extracellular vesicles (EVs) in maternal blood offers non-invasive insights into placental health. Variations in EVs signal potential pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-released particles containing proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, influencing recipient cell function.
- Placental and fetal-derived EVs are found in maternal circulation, with levels increasing during pregnancy.
- Altered EV levels are linked to pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical utility of quantifying maternal and placental extracellular vesicles (EVs).
- To synthesize current knowledge on EVs as non-invasive biomarkers for placental dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic analysis of peer-reviewed journal articles from online databases.
- Focus on studies quantifying pregnancy-related EVs, particularly placental EVs.
Main Results:
- Circulating maternal and fetal EVs can indicate pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes.
- EVs serve as liquid biopsies, providing insights into feto-placental unit status.
- EV detection in maternal blood from the first trimester aids early assessment.
Conclusions:
- Quantification of EVs shows promise as a non-invasive method to detect placental dysfunction.
- Pregnancy-related EVs are valuable biomarkers for predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the role of EVs in pregnancy adaptations and clinical applications.
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