Endothelial dysfunction underlies the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, but its mechanism has not yet been completely understood. Elevated oxygen free radicals may partially explain the endothelial cell damage. In this study, we have aimed to measure homocysteine (Hcy) and nitric oxide (NO) levels as endothelial dysfunction markers in preeclamptic women. Nineteen preeclamptic (33.9 ± 1.4 weeks) and 15 gestational-age-matched normal pregnant women (35.5 ± 0.7 weeks) were included in the study. Mean NO level was significantly lower (p < 0.001) and mean Hcy level was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the preeclamptic group. Elevated Hcy and oxygen free radical levels could decrease NO levels due to the reaction with each other and reduced NO may increase blood pressure and ischemia in preeclamptic patients. We have concluded that increased Hcy and oxygen free radical levels, and decreased NO levels are closely associated with preeclampsia-related endothelial dysfunction.

Keywords:
Preeclampsia, Endothelial dysfunction, Homocysteine, Nitric oxide
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel
2003
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.