The Apelinergic System in Pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Endocrinology
• Developmental biology

Background:

• The apelinergic system, comprising APJ receptor and ligands ELA and apelin, is crucial for cardiovascular, nervous system, and pregnancy functions.
• It plays essential roles in early embryonic development, placental formation, and function during gestation.
• Dysregulation of this system is linked to pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the apelinergic system's functions during pregnancy.
• To examine its pathophysiological involvement in placenta-related pregnancy disorders.
• To discuss the potential of apelinergic system components as therapeutic targets or biomarkers in obstetrics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on the apelinergic system in pregnancy.
• Analysis of research on ELA, apelin, and APJ in normal and complicated pregnancies.
• Examination of preclinical data from animal models of pregnancy complications.

Main Results:

• The apelinergic system is critical for embryogenesis, vasculogenesis, and placental development.
• While altered in human preeclampsia placentas, circulating levels of its components show inconsistent data.
• Exogenous administration of apelin or ELA improved preeclampsia-like symptoms and birth weight in murine models.

Conclusions:

• The apelinergic system is integral to healthy pregnancy and placental function.
• Its components are implicated in placenta-related disorders, with potential therapeutic benefits observed in animal studies.
• Translating these findings into clinical applications as biomarkers or treatments faces challenges.