Exploring the Relevance of S100A8 and S100A9 Proteins in Preeclampsia: A Narrative Review

Melinda-Ildiko Mitranovici1, Laura Caravia2, Ioan Emilian Oală1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emergency County Hospital Hunedoara, 14 Victoriei Street, 331057 Hunedoara, Romania.

Insights

S100A8/A9 proteins show potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication affecting maternal and fetal health. Further research is needed to explore their role in diagnosis and treatment, especially concerning fetal safety.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Immunology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Preeclampsia is a significant pregnancy complication with severe risks for both mother and fetus, including intrauterine growth restriction and future cardiovascular disease.
  • Current diagnostic approaches for preeclampsia often rely on multiple biomarkers, but novel markers are continuously being investigated.
  • S100A8 and S100A9, known inflammatory markers, are emerging as key players in preeclampsia research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an integrated overview of the role of S100A8/A9 in the physiopathology of preeclampsia.
  • To explore the potential of S100A8/A9 as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for preeclampsia.
  • To assess the current understanding and future directions for S100A8/A9 in managing preeclampsia.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes existing literature on S100A8/A9 in preeclampsia.
  • It analyzes their involvement in the pathological mechanisms of the condition.
  • It evaluates their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic agents based on current research.

Main Results:

  • S100A8/A9 proteins are implicated in the inflammatory processes underlying preeclampsia.
  • Their potential as prognostic biomarkers for placental dysfunction due to malperfusion requires further investigation.
  • S100A8/A9 blockers have shown promise in other conditions, suggesting therapeutic potential, though fetal safety is a concern.

Conclusions:

  • S100A8/A9 represent a promising area for understanding preeclampsia's pathology and developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research is crucial to validate their role as biomarkers and to establish the safety and efficacy of S100A8/A9-targeted therapies in pregnancy.
  • Understanding calprotectin's role could revolutionize preeclampsia management beyond the current sole treatment of birth.