Tumor necrosis factor alpha expression is increased in maternal microvascular endothelial cells in preeclampsia

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the expression and effects of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) in maternal endothelial cells in preeclampsia (PE).Methods: Expression levels in primary microvascular endothelial cells (MVEC) isolated from patients with severe preeclampsia (PE) and normal pregnancies were determined by RT-qPCR with or without treatment of TNFα and inhibitors for downstream signaling.Results: PE MVEC exhibited increased basal TNFα expression. TNFα treatment increased TNFα, VCAM, and endocan expression in MVEC.Conclusion: TNFα expression is increased in PE MVEC and the treatment of these cells with exogenous TNFα modifies their gene expression.