Messenger RNA expression of sFlt-1 in placenta and peripheral blood of preeclampsia

Objective To investigate the mRNA expression of sFlt-1 in placenta and serum in patients with preeclampsia. Methods The expression of sFlt-1 mRNA was detected by two-step real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR). Fifteen and fourteen placental specimens were collected from preeclampsia group and healthy control with matched gestational age, respectively. Maternal sFlt1 concentration in serum before labor was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Maternal serum sFlt-1 was significantly higher in preeclampsia group than control, (16.9±8.32) μg/L vs (5.48±2.09)μg/L, P0.05.The sFlt-1 mRNA expression could be detected in both groups. Compared with control group, sFlt-1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in preeclampsia placentas, (1.69±1.61) vs (4.11±4.09), P0.05. Positive relationship was observed between the level of sFlt-1 and the 24-hour proteinuria in women with preeclampsia (r=0.741, P0.05). Conclusion High maternal serum sFlt-1 and over expression of sFlt-1 mRNA in preeclampsia placenta may relate to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of preeclampsia.