ZEB2 reduction contributes to pre-eclampsia via Wnt/β-Catenin pathway

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Pathology

Background:

• Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific condition marked by hypertension and proteinuria.
• Investigating molecular mechanisms underlying PE is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the role of Zinc finger E-box binding homologous box 2 (ZEB2) in pre-eclampsia (PE).
• To elucidate the involvement of ZEB2 in the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway in PE pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

• PE mouse models were induced using L-NAME.
• ZEB2 expression was quantified using RT-qPCR and Western blot.
• Cellular proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were assessed in HTR8/Sveno cells.
• Wnt/β-Catenin pathway activity was analyzed via Western blot and inhibitor treatment.

Main Results:

• ZEB2 expression was significantly reduced in serum and placental tissues of PE patients and models.
• Overexpression of ZEB2 enhanced trophoblast cell proliferation, migration, and invasion while reducing apoptosis.
• ZEB2 activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway was confirmed by increased levels of key proteins.
• Inhibition of the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway partially reversed ZEB2's effects.

Conclusions:

• ZEB2 plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia.
• The Wnt/β-Catenin pathway mediates ZEB2's effects in PE.
• ZEB2 modulation represents a potential therapeutic target for pre-eclampsia.